Collaborative Divorce
Backed by 100+ Years' Experience
Newport Beach Collaborative Divorce Attorney
Assisting Clients With Collaborative Divorce in California
When the complexities of a divorce arise, it's essential to approach the situation with care, empathy, and a commitment to reaching a resolution that benefits all parties involved. At Burch Shepard Family Law Group, our Newport Beach collaborative divorce lawyers are dedicated to guiding clients through the collaborative divorce process, fostering open communication, and working toward an amicable resolution that prioritizes the well-being of all family members.
Call Burch Shepard Family Law Group today at (949) 565-4158 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our collaborative divorce lawyer in Newport Beach.
What is Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative divorce is a forward-thinking and solutions-focused approach to ending a marriage. It encourages divorcing couples to work with their respective attorneys, financial experts, and mental health professionals to achieve a mutually satisfactory settlement. Collaborative divorce promotes cooperation and open dialogue. It allows couples to retain control over the outcome of their divorce while minimizing the stress and emotional toll often associated with traditional divorce proceedings.
Common Reasons for a Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative divorce is particularly well-suited for couples who wish to prioritize their children's best interests, maintain mutual respect, and preserve amicable relationships even after the marriage ends. Some common reasons why couples choose the collaborative divorce process include:
Children's Well-being: Parents who want to minimize the emotional impact of divorce on their children often opt for collaborative divorce. This approach allows both parties to create a parenting plan that addresses their children's needs and supports their healthy development.
Privacy: Collaborative divorce proceedings are typically confidential and occur outside of the public courtroom. This discretion can especially appeal to individuals who value their privacy and wish to keep personal matters out of the public eye.
Control: Collaborative divorce empowers couples to have more control over the decisions that affect their lives. By actively participating in negotiations and settlements, spouses can shape their post-divorce arrangements to align with their needs and preferences.
Efficiency: While traditional litigation can be lengthy and expensive, collaborative divorce often leads to quicker resolutions. By focusing on productive discussions and compromise, couples can avoid the delays associated with court schedules.
How Long Does a Collaborative Divorce Take in California?
The duration of a collaborative divorce process can vary based on factors like the complexity of the problems involved, the willingness of both parties to cooperate, and the efficiency of communication.
In California, the mandatory waiting period for finalizing a divorce is six months from the date the divorce papers are served. Collaborative divorce can often be completed within this time frame, and in many cases, it may even be concluded more quickly. By focusing on open communication and negotiation, couples can resolve their issues efficiently and move forward with their lives sooner.
Contact Our Collaborative Divorce Lawyer in Newport Beach Today
If you are considering divorce and wish to explore a more respectful and cooperative approach, our Newport Beach collaborative divorce attorneys at Burch Shepard Family Law Group are here to assist you. With years of experience in family law and a commitment to supporting our clients through every step, we are dedicated to helping you reach a peaceful resolution that sets the stage for a positive post-divorce future.
“Thank you for all of your guidance and support through this journey!”
I just wanted to send you a HUGE thank you for all of your support through this process. I am thrilled with the outcome today and so relieved that this is coming to a close. Thank you for all of your guidance and support through this journey.
Former Client
“I would not hesitate to recommend Courtney Shepard and her team to anyone in need of quality representation in their divorce.”
“They made the divorce process so much less stressful than it could have been. I would not hesitate to recommend Courtney Shepard and her team to anyone in need of quality representation in their divorce.”
Former Client
“A brilliantly educated pit bull”
“True brilliance in action is a site to behold. At this point I am comfortable with everything she was able to help me with, and I know that she will be the first call I make, if I have any other future issues that require the courts intervention.”
Former Client
“THANK YOU ALL FOR EVERYTHING.”
I am thankful for a attorney Robert, for his wonderful representation. His professionalism, and the way he carries himself with so much authority and knowledge is making this process run Smoothly. The delay in the process has given my children and I time, space, peace of mind and the healing we needed so much, thank you. God knows the right timing and the right results and He sends us the right persons to work things out. You are all a team of wonderful people. Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About California Divorce
Do I Have to be a California Resident to Divorce Here?
To file for divorce, you must be able to prove California residency for six months and residency in the county where you file for at least three months. The respondent or "defendant" spouse in a divorce case does not have to be a California resident, however.
What are Some of the Key Early Steps in the Divorce Process, and How Long Does it Take?
Divorce proceedings begin when either spouse files a petition that is served on the other. The person served then has 30 days to file a response, or the case proceeds without that response toward a likely final judgment about six months later.
If there is a response, the parties begin the process of exchanging information and, typically, attempting to negotiate a marital settlement agreement either on their own or in a mandatory conference in court. Every case is different, and the entire process can take anywhere from months to several years.
Do I Need to Prove My Spouse Is at Fault for Causing the Divorce?
No. California is a "no fault" divorce state. Grounds for divorce are not considered, although the court may consider many factors when issuing orders on child custody and other issues.
How Do I Get Started if I Have Decided I Want a Divorce — or a Legal Separation?
Our divorce attorneys strongly encourage you to contact an experienced, qualified lawyer — ideally, one who focuses exclusively on family law. Pursuing a do-it-yourself divorce is legal but filled with traps and potential complications.
At the Burch Shepard Family Law Group, our Orange County divorce lawyers have guided many hundreds of men and women through divorces of all levels of complexity. We emphasize preparation and results, always putting our clients' needs and best interests first.
