Collaborative Law

Few legal issues are more emotionally charged than those with family. Matters stemming from divorce and separation can be especially complex and turbulent, and some disputes simply cannot be resolved between the family members themselves. Hiring separate attorneys and taking the matter to court is one option, however, a relatively new legal alternative is settling disputes through the process of Indianapolis collaborative family law.

Understanding Collaborative Family Law

When both parties to a dispute are committed to resolving their disagreement constructively, they can choose a negotiation procedure that utilizes the assistance of specialized attorneys. Indianapolis Collaborative lawyers with local experience, such as the firm of Hollingsworth & Zivitz, PC, have the experience and creativity needed to help foster an agreement that is mutually agreed upon by both parties. Rather than having a legal decision imposed upon the parties, collaborative law allows the parties and attorneys to craft realistic workable agreements.

Collaborative family law can be highly effective in settling issues pertaining to Indianapolis collaborative divorce. Our skilled attorneys help parties reach agreement in many areas, including:

  • Parenting (child custody)
  • Child support
  • Spousal support
  • Division of property

Collaborative attorneys in Indianapolis, IN use negotiations that allow parties to settle disputes outside of a courtroom - and outside of the provisions set forth by Indiana divorce laws. Collaborative lawyers in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas provide the family with a way to settle disputes without destroying relationships. However, it is important to note that, if either party decides to take the matter to court during the process of collaborative divorce in Indianapolis, this disqualifies both Indianapolis collaborative attorneys from the process. In these instances, both parties must pursue the case in court using different attorneys and begin the process anew.

The Skills of Collaborative Attorneys

The success of collaborative law depends heavily on the skills of the attorneys involved. They must take a different approach to law than is common in typical family law litigation situations. If you want to settle a family dispute through Indiana collaborative divorce or similar mediation, look for an attorney with the following skills and attributes:

  • Compassion: Your attorney should be able to see both sides of the argument, demonstrate sensitivity to the feelings of the parties involved, and have a strong desire to help both parties remain on positive terms after the dispute has been settled.
  • Problem solving: Even individuals who are committed to a friendly settlement do not agree on every issue. You need an attorney who uses creative means to find workable solutions for even the most difficult areas of the negotiation.
  • Record of success: With experience, the best collaborative attorneys will build a track record that proves their ability to assist clients. Those who hire these professionals should walk away with an agreeable settlement.

Contact us

Whether your legal issue involves divorce, child custody, child support, or education, Hollingsworth & Zivitz, PC, is committed to maintaining the highest standards of creativity and excellence for our clients, who are always our number one priority. To speak with a Hollingsworth & Zivitz, PC attorney, call 317.348.6723, or click here to contact us now.