Five People You Might Want on Your Collaborative Divorce Team

 Posted on December 11, 2024 in Collaborative Law

Collaborative divorce is an alternative to traditional litigation that focuses on resolving disputes through cooperation, negotiation, and mutual respect. This process allows divorcing spouses to work together to reach agreements that are beneficial for both parties and their children. While the goal is to avoid court battles, achieving a successful collaborative divorce often requires the assistance of a skilled team of professionals. Each team member brings unique expertise to help navigate the legal, emotional, and financial complexities of divorce.

Below are some professionals you might consider including on your collaborative divorce team. If you are interested in learning more about this option, speak with an experienced Illinois divorce lawyer.

Collaborative Divorce Attorneys

Although collaborative divorce teams are unique, the one team member that is absolutely necessary is an attorney with experience in collaborative divorce. At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, our head attorney is an experienced divorce lawyer trained in collaborative law who currently serves as a Fellow for the Collaborative Law Institute of Illinois. 

Unlike litigation-focused attorneys, collaborative divorce attorneys like Mr. Cores prioritize negotiation and cooperation. They help protect your legal rights, explain exactly what potential agreements would mean for you, and ensure all decisions comply with state laws. An attorney also acts as your advocate during joint meetings, ensuring your voice is heard while maintaining the collaborative spirit. Each spouse will need his or her own attorney. 

Financial Specialists

Divorce often involves complicated financial decisions, such as dividing assets, debts, and retirement accounts. A financial specialist, such as a certified divorce financial analyst (CDFA), forensic accountant, or business analyst can provide valuable insight into your financial situation. They help ensure property division is equitable and sustainable by:

• Evaluating the short- and long-term financial impact of proposed settlements.

• Assisting with budgeting for post-divorce life.

• Identifying potential tax consequences of asset division.

This expertise can be especially important if your marital assets include businesses, investments, or other complex financial interests.

Mental Health Professionals

Divorce is not just a legal and financial process — it is also a highly emotional one. Even the most well-intentioned and amicable divorces typically involve complex negative emotions like frustration and resentment. A mental health professional, such as a therapist or divorce coach, can help you manage the stress and emotions that often accompany this life change. In a collaborative divorce, mental health professionals may:

• Help you develop effective communication skills for negotiations.

• Provide support for coping with grief, anger, or anxiety.

• Assist in creating a parenting plan that focuses on the well-being of your children.

This support can help you stay focused on your goals and make thoughtful decisions throughout the process.

Child Specialist

If you have children, their needs and emotions need to be a top priority, since they are arguably the individuals most affected by divorce. Children whose parents divorce mindfully can thrive, while children who are subjected to angry, bitter divorces often have complex socioemotional problems later in life. 

A child specialist can serve as your children’s advocate during the collaborative divorce process. These professionals are trained to:

• Assess how divorce is affecting your children.

• Provide recommendations for parenting plans that promote stability.

• Communicate your children’s concerns or preferences in a neutral manner.

Their input helps ensure your children’s best interests remain at the forefront of negotiations.

Mediator

In some cases, a mediator can be a valuable addition to your team. Mediators are neutral third parties trained to facilitate discussions and resolve disputes. While your attorney will advocate for your interests, a mediator focuses on finding common ground and keeping negotiations productive.

Building the Right Team

The professionals on your collaborative divorce team can have a significant impact on the process and outcome of your case. Each brings specialized knowledge to help address specific challenges, allowing you to focus on building a foundation for the next chapter of your life.

Contact Our Wheaton, IL Collaborative Divorce Attorneys Today

At Andrew Cores Family Law Group, we believe that everyone benefits when divorce is handled as smoothly as possible. To that end, we are committed to helping divorcing couples and parents end their marriage peacefully with a settlement that allows everyone to move forward feeling they were treated fairly. Call us at 630-871-1002 today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our experienced, compassionate DuPage County, IL collaborative divorce attorney team.