Cooperative Divorce Attorney in Salem, Oregon

The end of a marriage is the end of a lifetime of plans. It’s the loss of one identity and a relationship with someone you thought you’d spend the rest of your life with. It can be incredibly heartbreaking and hard to manage if you and your soon-to-be-ex aren’t on the same page. 

But what about if you’re on the same page? What if you both want to remain amicable for yourselves or your children? In that case, divorce can be much easier. You’ll be able to close this chapter of your life with greater ease and less stress. 

If you’d like to speak to an experienced family law attorney about ending your marriage through collaborative divorce, call us today at 503-396-4996.

What Makes Cooperative Divorce Special?

In a cooperative divorce, you and your spouse agree to work together to avoid the stress, time, and costs associated with a contentious divorce. This dispute resolution method offers a more holistic and respectful approach for couples seeking a more amicable divorce.

Through the cooperative divorce process, you and your spouse will work together to resolve all matters involving the end of your marriage, including:

• Property division
• Spousal support
• Child support
• Child custody and visitation

The Importance of Cooperation

When you choose to cooperate with your spouse during your split, you agree to a unique dispute resolution process. You, your spouse, your respective attorneys, and neutral third parties like accountants and child specialists will work together to draft your divorce settlement. 

During this process, there will be individual meetings between lawyers and clients and large-group (“four-way” meetings) with all necessary parties. The goal is to discuss all open issues to draft a mutually satisfying settlement. The final agreement you reach in these meetings will become your ultimate divorce decree once filed with and accepted by the court.

The Difference Between Cooperative Divorce and Collaborative Divorce

While cooperative and collaborative divorces are similar, they are not the same. In both approaches, the spouses and their attorneys agree to work together and share information. However, collaborative divorces require additional documentation that is not necessary for a cooperative split. 

When couples choose a collaborative divorce, both parties and their attorneys must sign a “no court” agreement. This shows the spouses are fully committed to the process and requires the lawyers to step down if either party pursues the divorce in court.

In contrast, cooperative divorces do not use “no court” contracts. Your attorney will help you negotiate with your partner and work to keep your split out of the courtroom. However, should litigation become necessary, your lawyer can continue representing you throughout the process.

Cooperative or collaborative divorce is not right for every divorcing couple. Speak to an experienced divorce attorney who can help you find the right path forward for you.

Cooperative Divorce vs. Mediation

Divorce mediation is another form of alternative dispute resolution. Just like in a cooperative divorce, you and your partner agree to work together to decide how to address important issues in your divorce. What sets mediation apart is that it:

• Does not require either party to be represented by an attorney, though you may still choose to hire one

• Does not include other professionals aside from one neutral third-party mediator unless you believe they would be helpful
• Does not require parties to sign a “no court” agreement

The mediator is there to help you stay on track and resolve potential arguments before they derail your negotiations. They will work with you and any professionals you choose to help you find a mutually satisfying resolution. As with cooperative divorce, this may not be the right solution for every couple; a qualified divorce lawyer can help you choose the best option for your situation.

Call Us to Schedule a Consultation

We know it’s hard to figure out the right next step at a time like this. Luckily, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Reach out to our Salem, Oregon, law firm today for accessible, supportive legal representation.