Des Moines Collaborative Divorce Attorneys 

Helping Clients Achieve Amicable Divorce Solutions in Iowa

All of us have seen or heard about the contentious divorce process, where two parties battle it out in court over essential family issues. These issues are deeply personal and will likely have an enormous impact on their lives and their children's lives. Such divorces are often driven by animosity between the spouses whose main concerns may not be based on the best interests of everyone involved. Enter the collaborative divorce process, which seeks to reach a fair settlement through better communication, honesty, problem-solving, and a compassionate approach that prioritizes the welfare of all concerned.

When contemplating a divorce, you may not feel the above can be achieved or even attempted. However, with the help of professionals trained in the mechanics of collaborative divorce, you may find it the better path. At Hope Law Firm, our Des Moines collaborative divorce lawyers have extensive experience, training, and insight into helping couples reach a divorce settlement with less stress, in less time, and in a more cost-effective manner. With a combined 75 years of experience handling divorce, we have earned a reputation as a high-value, proven, and respected team.  

Are you considering a collaborative divorce in Iowa? Call Hope Law Firm today at (515) 305-2772 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our collaborative divorce attorneys in Des Moines!

What Is a Collaborative Divorce?

A collaborative divorce is one in which the divorcing couple is each represented by his or her attorney.

The two attorneys will meet exclusively with each other, with their own clients, and in group settings, where all four parties will discuss and problem-solve various divorce issues. 

These issues may include:

• Alimony
• Division of property 
• Division of debts
• Child custody/parenting plans
• Child support
• Any other divorce-related matters

Other professionals may also be utilized in the process, such as divorce coaches, child specialists, or financial advisers, whose roles will be to provide pertinent information and guidance on specific matters.

The purpose of the collaborative divorce process is to enable the two parties to come to a more amicable agreement that is best for the entire family. This puts the divorcing couple in the driver’s seat regarding the settlement, as opposed to the arbitrary judgment of a family court. The attorneys will submit a settlement to the court for approval once a settlement has been reached.

Benefits of Choosing Collaborative Divorce

Collaborative divorce provides numerous benefits over traditional litigation, especially when preserving relationships and minimizing emotional strain. Some of the key advantages include:

• Reduced Conflict: Collaborative divorce fosters a cooperative approach, focusing on collaboration instead of conflict. This helps reduce tension and allows for a more respectful and peaceful resolution.
• Control Over the Outcome: Unlike litigation, where a judge makes the final decision, collaborative divorce empowers both parties to actively participate in crafting the terms of their settlement. This ensures that the outcome is more personalized and mutually agreed upon.
• Cost and Time Savings: Collaborative divorce tends to be more affordable and faster than traditional divorce proceedings. It avoids lengthy court battles and reduces the need for multiple hearings.
• Privacy: Collaborative divorce sessions are private and confidential, contrasting with public court hearings. This allows you to discuss sensitive matters without worrying about them being exposed to the public.

Choosing the collaborative route can offer a smoother, less stressful experience that better protects the interests of both parties and any children involved.

How Collaborative Divorce Protects Your Children

When children are involved in a divorce, the emotional impact can be incredibly profound. Collaborative divorce is designed to help parents put their children's needs first, avoiding the adversarial nature of courtroom battles. Here’s how it can benefit your children:

• Focus on Co-Parenting: Collaborative divorce emphasizes creating parenting plans that work for both parents and prioritize the children’s stability. The process encourages open communication and mutual decision-making regarding their care and upbringing.
• Minimizing Trauma: Court battles can put children in the middle of disputes, leading to confusion and emotional stress. Collaborative divorce helps keep them out of the conflict, fostering a healthier environment for their development.
• Child Specialists: In some cases, collaborative divorce involves child specialists who can provide insight into the children’s needs and help parents make decisions based on what’s best for their emotional well-being.

Parents who choose a collaborative approach while keeping their children’s best interests front and center are better positioned to navigate the divorce process.

Contact Our Des Moines Collaborative Divorce Lawyers Today

Our Des Moines collaborative divorce lawyers have a successful track record of helping couples reach faster, less painful settlements through the collaborative process. We encourage you to consider this option and let us use our skills to help you reduce the cost, time, and potential adversity of a divorce. 

Reach out to Hope Law Firm for a consultation and find a solution that works for your family!