How is Alimony Handled in a Collaborative Divorce?

Paper with the word alimony written on it with money and paper on a tableDivorce can present many emotional and financial hurdles, especially when deciding on alimony (spousal support).

The collaborative divorce process is an alternative way of ending marriages without court interference – alimony is handled differently.

When deciding on alimony payments during the collaborative divorce process, here are some thoughts we often share with our clients to guide them through the process:

It is vital to maintain a transparent communication dialogue. Collaborative divorce fosters respectful dialogue between spouses, enabling open discussions about financial situations and needs. This transparency facilitates a better understanding of the financial landscape and leads to equitable agreements for alimony payments.

Each of you should be open to discussing customized spousal support solutions. Collaborative divorce allows couples to customize alimony arrangements specifically to their circumstances, including factors like marriage duration, earning capacities, financial obligations and co-parenting plans.

By taking all this information into account, each spouse’s needs and goals will be taken into account, and an alimony agreement that meets them will be created that represents everyone involved. In a court divorce, the judge decides and is often limited to past precedents and it is not cost effective for each partner.

Collaborative divorces often employ neutral financial experts such as financial planners or accountants to assess a couple’s finances, from income and assets to liabilities and debts, providing guidance that ensures fair alimony agreements. This ensures each spouse is heard and financial transparency occurs.

This process also focuses on long-term financial stability by focusing on long-term solutions and financial security for both spouses.

The unique feature of the collaborative divorce process is that it encourages creative problem-solving, out of the box discussions, win-win negotiations and resolutions that meet the needs of all family members.

When you utilize the Los Angeles Consensual Dispute Resolution Family Law Association, you can rest easier because you will know that when your divorce is finalized, each party involved, including your children, will be ready to face the future with confidence.

Call us today if you would like to learn more about how our LACFLA members can help you and your family through your divorce!

Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax/or mental health advice. You should work with your attorney, financial, mental health or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.