DIVORCE/MEDIATION IN SARASOTA, FL

When considering marital dissolution, there are several avenues available to you, each with its unique advantages. These options range from formal divorce litigation, which involves a courtroom trial, to a private collaborative divorce process, and mediation for reaching a divorce settlement agreement. At Flaherty Law Firm, our seasoned divorce mediators and attorneys are prepared to represent you in your divorce case, regardless of the chosen route.

Divorce Litigation:
Litigating a divorce through the court system starts with filing a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage. Temporary orders may be issued to outline custody, child support, alimony, residence in the marital home, bill payments, and any other immediate concerns. The court also sets deadlines and may require mediation. If no settlement is reached, a trial is held where the judge will make final decisions on asset distribution, payments, custody, and visitation.

Collaborative Divorce Process:
Alternatively, a collaborative divorce process may suit you better. This approach involves interest-based negotiation, allowing you to make your own decisions rather than relying on a judge's ruling. It's client-driven and cooperative, promoting respectful dialogues for beneficial outcomes.

At Flaherty Law Firm, our attorneys are proficient in collaborative divorces. This method involves signing an agreement to collaborate on a settlement without going to court. Private, informal meetings are held, information is exchanged freely, and divorce coaches and other professionals are engaged as needed. If the collaborative efforts fail, which is uncommon, new attorneys are required for litigation.

Divorce Mediation:
Mediation offers a lower-stress, cost-effective alternative to traditional divorce litigation. This alternative dispute resolution process, often court-mandated before trial, involves meeting with a neutral mediation professional, who facilitates settlement negotiations.

Mediation can happen at any time during the divorce process and can occur with or without legal representation. Once an agreement is reached, it is put into writing. The attorneys at Flaherty Law Firm are experienced divorce mediators ready to assist you in navigating this process. For more information or to schedule mediation, please get in touch with us.