Divorce Without the
Courtroom War
Litigation destroys assets and co-parenting relationships. The Collaborative Process allows you to retain control, privacy, and dignity while resolving your divorce with a specialized team of professionals.
Professional Affiliations
Quick Answer: Illinois Collaborative Divorce Requirements
Under 750 ILCS 5/502 (Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act), collaborative divorce requires a signed Participation Agreement where both spouses and attorneys commit to resolving all issues without court intervention. If the process fails, both attorneys must withdraw and cannot represent either party in subsequent litigation. The collaborative team typically includes two attorneys, a financial neutral (CPA/CDFA), a divorce coach, and a child specialist. Most collaborative divorces in Cook County resolve in 4-8 months compared to 18-24 months for litigated cases.
Source: Illinois Collaborative Law Act (pending), IACP Standards, Cook County Family Court statistics
Why Choose Collaboration Over Court?
Traditional Litigation
- Public record of all allegations
- Judge decides your schedule & assets
- Adversarial "win-lose" mindset
- Slow, scheduled by court availability
Collaborative Process
- 100% Private and Confidential
- You control the outcome
- Focus on future goals, not past blame
- On your timeline, at your pace
The Participation Agreement
The cornerstone of Collaborative Divorce is a signed contract (the Participation Agreement) where both spouses and their attorneys agree:
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1We will not go to court or threaten litigation.
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2We will provide full, voluntary financial disclosure.
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3If the process fails, both attorneys must withdraw.
*This final clause is powerful. It ensures everyone is 100% committed to settlement, because failure means starting over with new lawyers.
Common Questions
Is Collaborative Divorce cheaper?
Usually, yes. While you pay for a team of professionals, you split the cost of neutrals (financial and child specialists) rather than hiring dueling experts. More importantly, you avoid the massive costs of depositions, court hearings, and trial preparation.
What if my spouse is a narcissist?
Collaboration requires some level of transparency and good faith. If your spouse is manipulative or abusive, litigation might be necessary to get court orders for protection. We screen for this during your initial consultation.
How long does it take?
Most collaborative cases resolve in 4-8 months, compared to 18-24 months for litigated divorces in Cook County. The timeline is dictated by your family's needs, not the court's docket.
Choose Dignity Over Destruction
Start your next chapter with integrity. Schedule a confidential consultation to see if Collaborative Divorce is right for your family.