Omaha Collaborative Divorce Attorneys
Experienced Attorneys Guiding You Through the Collaborative Divorce Process in Douglas County, NE
If you and your spouse have decided to end your marriage, you may be dreading the process of going to court. Fortunately, there is another option available to you. If you and your spouse can work together and agree on the terms of your divorce, you may be able to obtain a divorce through the collaborative divorce process.
At Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan, we are dedicated to helping families reach amicable solutions during the divorce process. We can help you navigate the collaborative divorce process and protect your rights.
Call (402) 928-2007 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Omaha collaborative divorce lawyers.
What Is Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative divorce is a process that allows you and your spouse to work together to reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce. During the collaborative divorce process, you will each have your own attorney who will help you negotiate and create a divorce settlement agreement. The goal of the collaborative divorce process is to reach an agreement that meets the needs of both parties without having to go to court.
How Does Collaborative Divorce Work?
The collaborative divorce process typically involves a series of meetings between you, your spouse, and your respective attorneys. During these meetings, you will work together to reach an agreement on the terms of your divorce. In addition to your attorneys, you can also work with other professionals, such as financial advisors or mental health professionals, to help you reach an agreement.
Once you and your spouse have reached an agreement, your attorneys can help you finalize your divorce and ensure that the agreement is legally binding. If you are unable to reach an agreement, you can still go to court and have a judge make the decisions for you.
What Are the Benefits of Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative divorce offers several benefits over traditional divorce litigation, including:
- Less expensive: Going to court can be expensive, especially if your case goes to trial. By avoiding court, you can save money on legal fees and other costs.
- Less time-consuming: Going to court can take a long time. Collaborative divorce allows you to resolve your divorce more quickly and move on with your life.
- More control: In a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse have more control over the terms of your divorce. You can work together to create an agreement that meets your needs.
- Less stressful: Going to court can be stressful. Collaborative divorce allows you to resolve your divorce in a more relaxed and informal setting.
How Much Does Collaborative Divorce Cost?
The cost of a collaborative divorce will depend on a variety of factors, such as the complexity of your case and how long it takes you and your spouse to reach an agreement. However, in general, collaborative divorce is less expensive than litigating your divorce in court.
What Happens if We Can’t Reach an Agreement?
If you are unable to reach an agreement through the collaborative divorce process, you can still go to court. However, you will need to hire new attorneys to represent you. This means that you will have to start the divorce process over from the beginning and you will lose any money you have already spent on your divorce.
What Is the Difference Between Collaborative Divorce and Mediation?
Collaborative divorce and mediation are both alternative dispute resolution methods that can be used to resolve a divorce without going to court. However, there are some key differences between the two processes.
In a collaborative divorce, you and your spouse will each have your own attorney who will help you negotiate and create a divorce settlement agreement. You and your spouse will have more control over the process and more opportunities to have your voice heard.
In mediation, you and your spouse will work with a neutral third party called a mediator who will help you reach an agreement. The mediator does not represent either party and cannot provide legal advice. Instead, the mediator will help you and your spouse communicate and work together to create an agreement.
Both collaborative divorce and mediation are less expensive and less time-consuming than going to court. However, collaborative divorce may be the better option if you and your spouse have a lot of conflict and need the help of attorneys to negotiate an agreement.
Understanding the Role of Collaborative Divorce Attorneys
In the journey of collaborative divorce, having a dedicated team can make all the difference. Collaborative divorce attorneys are trained professionals who provide emotional support and guidance throughout the process. They help both parties communicate effectively, manage conflict, and stay focused on their shared goals.
Here’s how a collaborative divorce attoney can enhance your experience:
- Emotional Support: Navigating a divorce can be emotionally taxing. Coaches offer a safe space to express feelings and concerns, ensuring both parties feel heard and understood.
- Effective Communication: Coaches facilitate open dialogue, helping you articulate your needs and listen to your spouse, which is crucial for reaching a mutually beneficial agreement.
- Conflict Resolution: When disagreements arise, coaches provide strategies to address conflicts constructively, keeping discussions productive and focused.
- Goal Orientation: They assist in defining your goals and priorities, ensuring that the collaborative process aligns with your long-term vision for a positive outcome.
- Resource Connection: Coaches can connect you with additional resources such as financial advisors or child specialists, ensuring that all aspects of your divorce are handled comprehensively.
By incorporating a collaborative divorce coach into your process, you can foster a more amicable environment that prioritizes cooperation and mutual respect. At Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan, we can help you find the right coach to support your journey, making the collaborative divorce experience smoother and more effective.
What Can I Do to Prepare for a Collaborative Divorce?
There are several things you can do to prepare for a collaborative divorce, including:
- Get organized: Gather all of your financial documents and other important information. This will help you and your attorney create an accurate picture of your financial situation.
- Think about your goals: Before you start the collaborative divorce process, think about what you want to achieve. What are your goals? What is most important to you? This will help you and your attorney come up with a strategy.
- Consider what you are willing to compromise on: Divorce involves a lot of give and take. Think about what you are willing to compromise on and what you are not willing to give up.
- Stay calm: Divorce can be emotional. Try to stay calm and focused on the big picture. You are more likely to reach an agreement if you can keep your emotions in check.
What Can I Include in a Collaborative Divorce Agreement?
You can include a wide variety of issues in your collaborative divorce agreement, such as:
- Property division
- Spousal support
- Child support
- Child custody
- Visitation
- Debt division
- Tax issues
- Insurance issues
- Retirement accounts
- Business ownership
However, not all issues can be resolved through the collaborative divorce process. For example, you cannot resolve criminal matters or ask the court to modify a child support order.
How Our Experienced Omaha Collaborative Divorce Lawyers Can Help
At Slowiaczek Albers & Whelan, our collaborative divorce lawyers in Omaha can help you with every step of the collaborative divorce process, including:
- Helping you understand the collaborative divorce process and what to expect
- Helping you gather the necessary documents and other information you will need
- Helping you negotiate and create a divorce settlement agreement
- Helping you finalize your divorce and ensure that the agreement is legally binding
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling collaborative divorces and can help you reach an agreement that meets your needs. We will work closely with you throughout the process to ensure that your rights are protected and that your voice is heard.
Call (402) 928-2007 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our collaborative divorce attorneys.
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Dennis G. Whelan Read Full Bio
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Jacquelyn E. Warren Read Full Bio
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Virginia A. Albers
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" Read Full BioFor 25 years, Virginia has committed herself to family law practice, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and experience to the benefit of her clients and the legal community.
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Patricia Kelley Read Full Bio
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John S. Slowiaczek
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With 47 years of practice experience and leadership at the highest level of family law practitioners nationwide,
John's reputation and track record precedes him.
" Read Full Bio
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A Team Approach Every Step of the Way
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The Firm Other Firms Turn to for Advice
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When You Hire Us, You Hire the Entire Team to Focus on You
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We Prepare Every Case as Though We Are Going to Trial
Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (402) 928-2007.