Divorce is difficult, especially when children are involved. If a divorce is contested and dragged through the courts, this can heighten the stress on the children.
This is one of the reasons that collaborative divorce has gained popularity. Collaborative divorce offer a legally binding way to finalize the end of the marriage with reduced stress and conflict. Here are some of the key benefits that a collaborative divorce offers children.
Reduced conflict
The less that children are exposed to conflict, the better. Most litigated divorces involve parental conflict that the children experience or at least feel. They often blame themselves.
A collaborative divorce is all about communicating respectfully and finding amicable solutions. Conflict is kept to a minimum, which increases stability for children during an uncertain time.
A start to a positive co-parenting relationship
In most cases, both parents share custody of their children, even if it’s not evenly split. Sometimes, the child will usually live with one parent and the other parent will have visitation rights.
By taking a collaborative approach to the divorce, parents show that they can still work together in the best interests of the child. Working together with legal representatives to negotiate divorce agreements can help divorcing couples build a co-parenting relationship in the future. Challenges are bound to arise, but if parents can get through a divorce amicably, then they can address most issues.
A tailored parenting plan
One of the benefits of collaborative divorce is that it leaves parenting plans in the hands of the parents. In litigated cases, the court often steps in and comes to a ruling based on the best interests of the child. Such a ruling may not please at least one of the parents. A personalized parenting plan structured around the new family dynamic and needs of the child is achievable with a collaborative approach.
If you’re going through a divorce, collaborative law certainly warrants careful consideration. To find out more about the process, you can seek legal guidance.