Alternatives to a traditional divorce

Feb 6 2015 - Posted by On Behalf of the Lincoln Law Firm, PPLC, in Divorce Mediation

Houston residents who are considering a divorce or starting the divorce process may feel a huge amount of emotional stress and anxiety regarding the process. Many times a divorce is complicated and can involve many issues, including property division, child support, alimony and a host of other problems. Many people think that a divorce always includes court dates and judges, but there are alternatives to the traditional divorce proceedings.

One divorce option is the do-it-yourself divorce. This type of divorce is where the couple files their own paperwork and other necessary documentation. However, there are very few situations where this makes sense for a divorcing couple, as mistakes are often irreversible.

The second divorce option is a collaborative divorce. In a collaborative divorce each partner meets with their own attorneys who will advise their client and help them negotiate a settlement. The person’s attorney will also meet with the other spouse and their attorney. Everyone works together to come up with a settlement that is fair for both parties. Financial planners and therapists may also be involved if there are complicated financial matters or issues regarding child custody and child support.

The third divorce option is mediation. In a divorce mediation there is a neutral mediator who works with both sides to set the terms of the divorce. Each person still has an attorney to advise them, but the mediator is neutral and can help both sides reach an amicable settlement. Mediation can also cost less than a litigated divorce and can be a more peaceful process if children are involved.

Finally, there is the traditional litigated divorce. Attorneys still try to work out an agreement between their clients in this process, but if they can’t reach a reasonable settlement the divorce will wind up in front of a judge. The judge will make the decisions regarding property division, child custody, child support and alimony.

While there are clearly choices to be made when getting a divorce, the mediation route can be very help by potentially decreasing the amount of time and money spent during the difficult process. Seeking the assistance of an experienced mediation attorney can help set forth a solid plan of action.

Source: forbes.com, “The four divorce alternatives“, Jeff Landers, April 24, 2012

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I met with Mrs. Lincoln and she consulted with me about my divorce. She was a wealth of information that I did not know or understand and she explained it to me fully. I hired her to represent me in this divorce and she did an outstanding job that was fair to both me and my future ex-wife. She was so good that she helped my ex-wife by answering questions for her after her lawyer would not return calls or emails. My ex-wife is the one who suggested I contact Mrs. Lincoln and made the comment that she wished she had hired her instead. I would highly recommend her if you find yourself in the situation where you need a great divorce lawyer.

- David -

Chris was patient and compassionate throughout my process, which was not very peaceful. I felt I was advised, prepared, and equipped with the knowledge and expectations needed to go through such an unfortunate situation. Chris has continued to acknowledge and answer questions even multiple years after the divorce was final.

- Anonymous -

While going through a divorce can be very hard and emotional, Chris made the whole experience as easy as possible. At no time did she judge me for the reasons behind the divorce and was a pleasure to work with under the circumstances. She was fair, up front, honest and represented me without hesitation throughout the entire process, nor did not try to nickel & dime me what so ever. I was very pleased with the final outcome and would give Chris high recommendations for anyone needing a divorce attorney.

- Kirk -

After my wife passed away, my stepdaughter's options were me or her biological father who has never been a part of her life except to cause problems. Christine represented me throughout the adoption process and we successfully terminated his parental rights and won the adoption. As best I can recall, the only things I said to the judge were "yes ma'am" and "thank you". Prior to talking to Christine, I talked with at least 3 other lawyers, all of which told me I didn't stand a chance at adopting my daughter. Not only did we win the case, I knew we were going to win after the first court appearance.

- Nick -

I’ve known Chris Lincoln for several years. She did my second divorce when my third marriage failed... I knew who to go to immediately.... Chris Lincoln is a knowledgeable, dedicated, hard-working attorney who cares about her clients. She understands the system has worked for many many years and knows the ins and outs of the divorce procedures. A few tough issues came up and she knew exactly how to handle them. She cares about her clients and wants to protect your rights and your property. And most of all, she has a clear head. She won’t let her clients get mixed up in emotional battles that will just prove costly for everyone. She understands the issues and clarifies them quite well. If you want a great divorce attorney... someone who understands the system.. Chris is your attorney. I have, and will recommend Chris immediately to anyone who needs a divorce attorney!

- Jim -

Christine Lincoln was an absolute Godsend for me! she answered on my first call and immediately started to settle my nerves by slowly walking me through my situation and answering all of my questions. She was able, in a short 3 month period of time, to get my situation resolved. She stayed on top of my case all the while reassuring me that she would move it forward toward resolution. Absolutely fantastic!!!

- Marnie -

Chris Lincoln is capable and also personable, keeping you informed through the entire process. She will work for you until the desired results are achieved. I would hire her again (without hesitation).

- Marleen -

Chris helped me from start to finish for my daughters adoption. Everything she did, she did with my daughters best interest in mind. Thanks to her, our family has been made whole!

- Brittani -

Alternatives to a traditional divorce

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