Alternatives to Divorce in Indianapolis
The American Psychological Association (APA) reports that greater than 90 percent of people in Western cultures marry by the age of 50. However, approximately 40 percent to 50 percent of married couples in the U.S. divorce. Divorce is a common occurrence that can also be a stressful and costly process.
At Trapp Law, LLC in Indianapolis, IN, we help those who seek alternatives to divorce. Our experienced attorneys know what is at stake in family law cases and take steps to come to a mutually agreed decision to avoid a contentious future with a former relationship partner. We are proud to be able to deliver high quality, affordable legal services, and we offer a free and confidential initial consultation.
What Alternatives Are Available?
When a marriage is ending, couples can go in several different ways, depending on the circumstances. If you are uncertain which divorce alternative is best for you, our divorce attorneys in Indianapolis can help you with that decision in a free consultation.
Legal Separation
This is a formal agreement by which spouses live separately but remain legally married. The court issues orders regarding child custody, child support, spousal maintenance, and property division, similar to a divorce. Legal separation may be the best option in some cases for personal or financial reasons.
Do-It-Yourself Divorce
Divorce is a legally and financially complicated process. Mistakes can have long-term consequences. It is not recommended that you do it yourself. The only possible exception may be a short-term marriage with no children, no spousal maintenance, and little or no debts and assets. Even in such a case, each spouse should have his or her own attorney to review the documents.
Collaborative Divorce
The spouses work out a settlement together out of court. Each spouse retains an attorney with experience in the collaborative divorce process. The attorneys advise and assist their clients in negotiating a settlement agreement.
The process involves separate meetings with each spouse and his or her attorney and meetings with both spouses and both attorneys. If the process is successful and both parties and their attorneys sign the agreement, they will still need to appear in court to obtain the signature of the judge.
Collaborative divorce is generally much quicker and less costly than traditional divorce. It may not be recommended for couples with significant assets or complicated financial situations.
Mediation
Mediation can help expedite a divorce agreement, allow for more privacy and discretion, result in better relationships between ex-spouses, reduce expenses, and make divorce proceedings more peaceful and easier for the children. The spouses work with a neutral mediator who helps the parties arrive at agreements on various aspects of the divorce. During mediation and before signing a divorce settlement agreement, both parties should consult with their individual attorneys.
Litigated Divorce
A traditional, litigated divorce is the most common type. It does not necessarily mean you will have to go to court. In fact, most litigated divorce cases are settled out of court. This type of divorce often occurs when one spouse wants a divorce and the other does not. This automatic adversarial position disqualifies collaborative divorce and mediation. The most difficult aspect of a litigated divorce, or any divorce, is reaching agreements on child custody, spousal maintenance, and division of assets and liabilities.
At Trapp Law, LLC in Indianapolis, we understand the sensitive nature of a relationship that is no longer viable and can help you find the most appropriate alternative to divorce to suit your individual circumstances and needs. Contact us today.