A cooperative divorce is a viable alternative for many couples who are able to respectfully negotiate with each other. Each party may choose to be represented by an attorney or they may be able to complete the process with the services of only one lawyer. This process requires a high degree of trust as it is important that all assets and liabilities are disclosed.
A couple working through the cooperative divorce process may engage the services of parenting specialists,financial planners,business and real estate appraisers or other specialists who will give neutral advice to help the couple forge an equitable agreement.
Better Control Over The Process
There is no one size fits all solution to ending a marriage. With a Cooperative Divorce,you have more control over resolutions and settlements that suit your personal values,goals and needs. Unlike traditional divorces,a court doesn’t dictate your future – you do!
- Help Maintain your sense of integrity and respect
- Saves you money and emotional energy
- Works within your time frame not the lawyers’
The Ability to Preserve Your Privacy
Do you want your divorce to be between you and your spouse and not have your relationship aired in public? In a typical divorce all your private information becomes public record through court documents. A Cooperative Divorce can help you preserve your privacy.
- The terms of your settlement are not filed with the court
- Employers are not involved in the discovery process
- Family,friends and co-workers are not pulled into your divorce
More Protection For Your Children
Children can be emotionally scarred by a high conflict divorce. Cooperative Divorce allows you to put your children’s emotional,financial and future needs first insuring they are a priority not a casualty.
- Reduces the negative emotional impact of divorce
- Allows for better relationships with both parents
- Provides better modeling for conflict resolution
Significant Cost Savings
A cooperative divorce offers significant cost savings over traditional litigation. There format can vary to meet the needs of the couple. Some couples will need to have full representation for each party,some can work cooperatively with each other and use one attorney for drafting document or,in some cases,parties may merely pay attorneys for “legal coaching”.
- You control the timelines
- You determine the extent of necessary legal fees
- You determine how much you are willing to do yourself
- Flat fees are often available

Karin E. Quirk
