For California couples teetering on the edge of divorce, one of the primary concerns is loss of control during the process. In a courtroom, the presiding judge makes decisions that can affect every aspect of your life for the foreseeable future. Although you can object, it may not mean much in the judge’s domain. However, there is an alternative that not only keeps you out of court but also provides you and your children with a support team to help you from start to finish.
According to Psychology Today, the team approach in a collaborative divorce can help minimize the feelings of isolation and help you maintain control of the process. The members and size of your team depend on your needs.
Divorce coaches
A divorce coach can help you communicate effectively with your spouse and teach you how to handle the stress that comes with a major life change. These mental health professionals have training and experience in various areas, such as the following:
- Divorce
- Child development
- Co-parenting
- Parenting planning
- The impact of divorce on children
The techniques you learn from your coaches can help you long after you sign the papers and move on with your life.
Financial professionals
Negotiating the most beneficial settlement often begins with understanding your options. Having a financial professional on your team can help you determine the best way to divide significant assets and plan your financial future based on your unique situation. Depending on your case, you might benefit from a CPA, business valuator and other neutral third-party financial professionals.
Divorce changes the family structure. Your team can help you define the ground rules for co-parenting communication, teach you to manage a respectful relationship with your ex and negotiate a beneficial settlement. Since the collaborative divorce process takes place out of court, it also helps maintain privacy regarding your family issues and finances.