Are you looking to prevent a lengthy, unpleasant divorce with a former spouse or partner? Fortunately, Ontario has a strong collaborative family law regime that allows families to separate amicably and cost-efficiently.
In this blog, we’ll introduce you to collaborative divorces, the benefits of this approach, and the role your family lawyer in St. Catharines will play.
What is a Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative family law – also called collaborative divorce, “no-court divorce”, and “divorce with dignity” – is a way for spouses and common-law partners to resolve issues without going to court.
The couple sits together with their divorce lawyers in St. Catharines to decide contentious issues, such as the separation of property, child custody, visitation rights, alimony, and child support.
As appealing as it sounds, and cost-effective as it is, collaborative divorces require one very important thing: collaboration. The separated couple must be willing and able to work together to reach a fair settlement in good faith.
If the thought of sitting face-to-face with your former partner and communicating openly seems daunting, you are not alone. This is a common emotion that people experience, but our experienced lawyers in family law near you can advise you on the right next steps.
Benefits of Collaborative Divorces
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Preserving the Relationship
Once you go to court, the matter becomes adversarial, and it becomes hard to maintain a relationship afterwards. With a collaborative divorce, you and your former partner have the opportunity to maintain a positive relationship.
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Greater Control Over the Process
In a collaborative divorce, both parties maintain greater control over the outcome. In comparison to going to court, where the judge has the final say, this approach can be seen as fairer in your eyes.
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Finalizing the Divorce or Separation Faster
Though this depends on the complexity of your personal matters and the relationship of the separating couple, collaborative divorces can be completed substantially faster than court divorces. You don’t need to wait for court-appointed dates, lengthy procedures, or the court’s decision.
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Less Impact on Children
Collaborative divorces can be much less stressful for children. They are able to maintain comfortable routines and interactions with their parents, greatly reducing the trauma of separation.
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Maintaining Privacy
Collaborative divorces are private, confidential affairs, allowing you to complete your separation out of the public eye. Court divorces, on the other hand, are a matter of public record unless one of three possible exceptions applies.
The Role of Family Lawyers in St. Catharines
The process may be collaborative, but it doesn’t mean you don’t need experienced divorce lawyers in St. Catharines by your side. Your lawyers will:
- Advise and guide you throughout the process
- Negotiate on your behalf
- Protect your interests and assert your rights
- Investigate financial and personal matters, if needed
Are You Contemplating a Collaborative Divorce?
If you are considering this approach for your divorce, speak to an experienced lawyer in family law near you. At LCW, book a complimentary, no-obligation consultation to discuss your relationship and understand your options. Our family lawyers in St. Catharines are equipped to assist our clients through collaborative divorces, and we have the resources to represent you formidably if your divorce goes to court.