How a cooperative approach can help you achieve a quicker, stress-free, and financially sustainable divorce.

Divorce is often associated with conflict, but it doesn’t have to be that way. More and more couples consider an amicable or “friendly” divorce as a means of easing the financial cost and emotional turmoil. But what exactly is involved with an amicable divorce, and how will it help you achieve a quicker, better, financially sustainable result?

Why Does a Traditional Divorce Take So Long?

Going through the courts can be a lengthy process. All traditional divorces involve hearings and trials at the courthouse, heaps of paperwork, and prolonged negotiations, which make the whole process long and burdensome. This places a large burden on the already-crowded courts, so the process can often take a year or more. But there is another alternative: choosing a more amicable approach can get you through these delays and help you achieve a quicker resolution in your matter.

The Benefits of an Amicable Divorce

A friendly divorce emphasizes cooperation and mutual agreement, rather than constant contestation in the courtroom. The couple can have all their agreements through mediation or collaborative law, with less consumption of time and without going through the distressing back-and-forth of court disputes. This approach saves one a considerable amount of time; it also tends to be more inexpensive and much less painful.

The Dangers of Moving Too Fast

However, in the desire to wrap things up quickly, it’s essential not to rush. This is because making decisions hastily will lead to overlooking some important details, such as whether one of the parties can assume the mortgage that is currently at a low interest rate rather than having to refinance. We also want to make sure any agreements will stand the test of time, which requires allowing people to sleep on their decisions. Overall, an uncontested divorce will likely make things much faster, but it still is a very sensitive matter that requires thoughtfulness with each step forward.

Finding the Best Fit for Your Divorce

Ultimately, finding the balance between speed and thoroughness is key. An amicable divorce does not mean making deals that compromise on what you want and leaving you feeling unsatisfied; rather, it is about chiseling out a solution that respects both parties’ needs. Taking the time to negotiate and finalize terms carefully will avoid future conflicts or regrets. When looking into a divorce, consider an approach that can balance cooperation with care in planning.

It is here that a friendly, amicable strategy might just be what would get you to a much smoother transition-one that may save you both time and money while preserving your peace of mind.

Myah Kehoe, Attorney & Mediator

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