Every couple who is facing divorce, will go about it in their own way. The reason for your divorce, and the relationship you leave it with, is custom the couple. Some of you will need heavy intervention and long hours spent in mediation and court. Others will be more cordial, easy-going, and cooperative. For couples that fall into the latter category, you might find that your divorce is a bit cheaper, less nasty, and goes by much quicker. One method for easy-going, collaborative couples is to take the kitchen table divorce approach. The kitchen table divorce method is the definition of a low, to no, intervention method for collaborative divorcees.
Kitchen Table Divorce: Is this Low Maintenance Method Made for You?
First off, what exactly isa kitchen table divorce?
A kitchen table divorce is a divorce is one that you handle within the walls of your own home— presumably at your kitchen table. Through this method, you avoid using judges, courtrooms, trial, and a lot of time with your respective attorneys. In fact, you might not even use attorneys at all if everything goes as planned.
What makes this method difficult?
Quite obviously, the hardest part for most will be reaching an agreement that works for you both. Everything from property division, to child support, custody, and even alimony, must be handled with ease between you both. As you can probably tell, these issues can be quite difficult to decide on— which is what makes them so costly when it comes down to mediation and the courtroom.
The good news is, if you both want to try your hand at this, it won’t cost really anything to do so. Many divorce websites will give you a basic divorce form that simplifies the process. There’s absolutely no harm in trying this method and then moving into alternative ones if you come up unsuccessful. You’ll want to look into the laws of your own state to make sure you’re hitting your marks. Also, even if you’re successful in this method— having an attorney take a look at it will be well worth the money. By doing so, you make sure that you’re following the right path, adhering to local law, and protecting both parties.
Every divorce is different, and what works for you might not work for someone else…
There’s no shame in giving this method a try and it not working out. In the end, at least you’ll know you did everything you could to go about this amicably. If you can’t come to an agreement together, then a kitchen table divorce is not your path. But, I’ll let you in on a little secret—it doesn’t work for many couples. However, we encourage following your own path when it comes to a separation. We wish you luck in making an attempt at a kitchen table divorce. Furthermore, we offer our condolences for your separation, and extend our services if you may need them.