Many people who divorce think that the process must be extremely contentious or that if attorneys get involved it will become that way. This is not the case. If a person is seeking representation of an attorney for a divorce, the attorney may be able to assist them with reaching a settlement agreement, making things less contentious.
In recent years, many attorneys have moved more toward collaborative law. Collaborative law seeks a more peaceful way of coming to otherwise litigious matters. It can be used not only in divorce cases, but also civil cases. In family law matters, collaborative lawyers will utilize other experts to care for the "whole" person/family. This may include therapists, financial advisors, CPA's, etc. For more information see the Collaborative Law Guide for Divorce.
Although not a collaborative lawyer, I am in full agreement with idea of parties seeking more amicable ways to a resolution for their marital discord. I use a South Carolina Certified Family Court Mediator to assist in achieving this aim. Mediation can help you minimize the financial and emotional costs of divorce -- despite the hurt, anger, and lack of trust that usually accompanies the breakdown of a marriage. This also helps if there are children born of the marriage. The process of divorce can be equally emotional on the child as well as the adult.
If you are going through a divorce, or thinking of it as a option, consider using a softer approach to the usual and contact Wendy M. Bowen, Attorney at Law for assistance. We are here to help you pick up the pieces and put them back together again. Don't let divorce shatter you.
