Cooperative Divorce

A settlement based approach with the option of litigation if necessary

Cooperative Divorce is a principles based process of handling divorce which is settlement-based, but leaves open the possibility of litigation if - and only if - absolutely necessary.

The following outlines the principles of the cooperative divorce process:

Both parties and attorneys commit in good faith to do the following:

• Cooperate by acting civilly at all times and by responding promptly to all reasonable requests for information from the other party.
• Cooperate by fully disclosing all relevant financial information.
• Cooperate by obtaining joint appraisals and/or other expert opinions before obtaining individual appraisals or expert opinions.
• Cooperate by obtaining meaningful expert input (e.g., a child specialist) before requesting a custody study or the appointment of a guardian ad litem
• Cooperate in good faith negotiation sessions, including 4-way sessions where appropriate, to reach fair compromises based on valid information.
• Cooperate by conducting themselves at all times in a respectful, civil and professional manner.

Advantages of Cooperative Divorce

• Sets a framework for settlement
• Reassures clients that attorneys will try to settle the case
• Minimizes inefficiency and unnecessary costs
• Promotes Cooperative Co-parenting
• Fosters Civility and Respect
• Gives parties the option of seeking court intervention, if necessary

For more information, please go to  www.cooperativedivorce.org