Separating two life paths that used to share a road together can be emotionally intense and quite complicated. For most people, it’s helpful to move forward with divorce as amicably as possible. Ending a marriage can be difficult to do, but once at least one of the parties has agreed it’s the right thing choice, they will have to figure out how to divide their assets and make sure their kids are cared for. Our Asheville, NC collaborative divorce lawyer knows that some divorces are highly contentious and litigious, requiring plenty of time in the courtroom. However, it may be possible to reach agreements through negotiation. If you are considering a collaborative divorce where you and your ex-spouse go separate ways peacefully, then contact our team at The McKinney Law Group today for further guidance.
What Makes A Divorce Collaborative
When a couple decides to move forward with divorce, they are encouraged to work together to reach agreements about the life they once shared. When each person is willing to cooperate in a cordial manner, the process is more smooth compared to fighting in court. Our collaborative divorce attorney can help couples make decisions through mediation and negotiations. The main factor in a collaborative divorce is that both parties share the common goal of settling the case outside of court. With our collaborative divorce attorney having experience in dispute resolution, it’s possible to find solutions where each person feels seen and heard. A collaborative divorce can be important in minimizing emotional turmoil, and preserving co-parenting dynamics as the couple will still have to communicate with each other for their kids.
The Nature Of The Divorce Process
Divorce in its nature can be riddled with conflict, volatile emotions, and uncertainties. But remember that this process does not have to feel like a ground for battle. A collaborative divorce means that couples can part ways in a more constructive way, versus arguing in court for a prolonged period of time. This is a voluntary dispute approach where couples work together to reach mutually agreeable solutions without going to litigation. Our collaborative divorce attorney knows that the goal is to open up a space for communication and cooperation, where each has some say in the final outcome and their best interests. As our Asheville collaborative divorce lawyer explains, the key elements of a collaborative divorce include:
- A neutral professional
- A mental health coach
- Child specialists (if kids are involved)
- Two collaborative attorneys (for each partner)
- Commitment to avoiding court
- Open communication
- Future-focused discussions
- Confidentiality
The McKinney Law Group
Our team at The McKinney Law Group are a team of professionals who work diligently to reach resolutions in a timely manner. The divorce process can be grueling and consuming of time and money. Our Asheville collaborative divorce lawyer can assist with a collaborative divorce so that your stress is reduced, you can save funds, and ultimately have a better outcome overall. Through this approach, it is likely that at least some of each party’s wishes will be considered. If you have to attend court to resolve your disputes, there is no guarantee that the verdict will benefit both sides. For more information, contact us today so we can help!
Types Of Collaborative Divorce Cases We Handle
At The McKinney Law Group, we assist individuals and families who want to approach divorce through a cooperative process focused on reaching shared goals. Collaborative divorce focuses on mutual respect, privacy, and control over the outcome. We help our clients identify practical goals and work toward agreements that address property division, child custody, and financial support—without turning to the courtroom. Our team offers legal support that prioritizes communication and long-term planning, making the process more constructive and less stressful. If you’re seeking alternatives to traditional litigation, working with our Asheville, NC collaborative divorce lawyer can offer a more thoughtful and cooperative approach.
Facilitated Joint Meetings
Joint meetings are the foundation of the collaborative process. Both spouses and their attorneys participate in structured sessions that give each party the opportunity to voice concerns, clarify priorities, and work through decisions together.
Neutral Financial Professionals
A neutral financial professional may be brought in to help gather and interpret financial information. This includes analyzing assets, debts, retirement accounts, and budgets so that both parties can make informed choices about support and property division.
Child-focused Planning Sessions
When children are involved, the collaborative process often includes a child specialist. This person helps parents identify parenting goals, create effective custody arrangements, and reduce tension around decisions that affect the children’s day-to-day lives.
Coaching For Communication
Divorce coaches sometimes assist in guiding communication during the collaborative process. These professionals offer tools for managing emotions, reducing conflict, and keeping discussions focused on problem-solving rather than blame or frustration.
Written Participation Agreements
Each person involved in a collaborative divorce signs a written agreement at the beginning of the process. This agreement confirms that both spouses intend to handle all matters without going to court and sets clear expectations for behavior, collaboration, and confidentiality.
Legal Guidance Without Courtroom Involvement
Throughout the process, both parties continue to receive individual legal advice from our Asheville collaborative divorce lawyer. Unlike in litigation, however, the attorneys are working toward mutually acceptable outcomes, not courtroom victories, which encourages a more balanced and respectful process.
Customized Settlement Planning
Collaborative divorce allows room for creative solutions that meet each family’s unique needs. From co-parenting schedules to property arrangements, the outcome can be tailored in ways that courts often cannot provide, allowing more flexibility and control over the final agreement.
Focus On Preserving Relationships
The collaborative process supports healthier communication that can continue after divorce—especially important when children are involved. Instead of leading to a win-lose result, it supports solutions that both parties can agree on and carry into the future.
Collaborative divorce is not just about resolving legal matters—it’s about building a workable future. With the guidance of an Asheville collaborative divorce lawyer, families can move through divorce with less conflict and more cooperation. Our firm supports clients through every step of the collaborative process, helping them build agreements based on transparency, respect, and long-term goals. From financial planning to parenting arrangements, we help our clients make thoughtful decisions that support their future. Attorneys like those at The McKinney Law Group bring the structure and legal support needed to make collaborative divorce a practical and effective option.