Collaborative divorce can be helpful for those with major assets

Divorce is an inherently tumultuous time for the parties involved. Divorcing couples can get an amicable divorce, if in name only; but it is impossible to remove the uncomfortable feeling from the divorce equation.

This doesn't mean that the couples are incapable of negotiating the matters that are pertinent to their divorce. In fact, having healthy discussions about your divorce -- even if you and your spouse are on bad terms -- can not only placate some of that animosity, but it can also result in less litigation and a better divorce agreement.

For example, if you and your spouse are unable to come to an agreement on alimony or asset division, these matters will be put before a judge. In many cases, the judge's ruling is rigid and leaves the spouses unhappy with the ultimate outcome. Imagine in the case of alimony: the judge may set the monthly payments at an amount more than the paying spouse expected, but less than what the receiving spouse expected. Both sides are unhappy, and it could have been possible for them to reach a creative and acceptable deal regarding the alimony on their own.

This is why collaborative divorces are becoming a more prominent choice for splitting spouses. It can be especially important for couples who have sizeable and significant assets, as the spouses protect against losing parts (or all) of these assets to a judge's ruling. Consult an attorney to enter into a collaborative divorce, as it will help both sides properly navigate the process.

Source: U.S. News, "Why a Collaborative Divorce Makes Financial Sense," Geoff Williams, Aug. 19, 2013