Alternatives to Collaborative Divorce

There are different paths toward divorce. 
Collaborative Divorce sets a new direction for the future.

Collaborative Divorce is not for everyone. Other options to consider include:

Do-it-Yourself Divorce (pro se)

If you and your spouse or partner have already agreed on property distributions, child custody issues and all other matters, you may choose not to use an attorney. For details on fees and requirements for filing for divorce in Bernalillo County contact the Second Judicial District Court, Domestic Relations Division or the Pro Se Division at:

(505) 841-8151 Or
( 505) 841-6702

Or visit them at the Bernalillo County Courthouse at 400 Lomas Blvd. NW, Room 277 (2nd floor),
Albuquerque, NM 87102. on the web at www.nmcourts.gov/seconddistrictcourt/

For Santa Fe, Rio Arriba and Los Alamos counties contact the First Judicial District Court, on the web at www.FirstDistrictCourt.com,

First Judicial District Court, 100 Catron Street, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87501
(505) 476-0189

For all other counties go to: www.nmcourts.com

Mediation

This is another alternative dispute resolution method, as Collaborative Divorce is, but lawyers may, or may not, be involved and there is no agreement not to go to court. A mediator is a neutral third party who helps to negotiate an agreement between you and your spouse. A mediator can acknowledge both emotional and practical concerns. If an agreement is reached, the mediator, or lawyers, may write up the agreement. It is recommended that only lawyer-mediators write up the agreements that are filed with the court. Mediators can have backgrounds as attorneys or mental health professionals. Mediation is not recommended if you feel you cannot negotiate with the same strengths as your spouse or if there is no trust that all relevant information will be shared.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Court Divorce ("Traditional" Divorce)

A court divorce process may be your choice if one or the other spouse is not willing to participate in a collaborative process and you have complex issues to resolve. Typically you would contact a divorce or family law attorney to determine if their services meet your needs and budget. If you file, the other party will be served with divorce papers. Eventually, your case may be sent to court, with your attorney representing you. A judge would make final legal determinations. Also see www.nmcourts.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why choose a Collaborative Divorce?