While ending a marriage is an emotional process, the actual work starts after the divorce if children are involved. Mutual respect, structure, and communication are necessary for co-parenting. While focusing on what really matters—their children—collaborative divorce helps parents in making that change out of court.
Here’s how to use collaborative divorce to build a healthy, lasting co-parenting relationship:
Step 1: Agree to Collaborate
Collaborative divorce starts with a mutual commitment to:
- Resolve issues outside the courtroom
- Share information openly
- Prioritize your children’s emotional and physical well-being
Step 2: Build a Child-Centered Team
You’ll each have your own collaborative attorney, and together, you may work with:
- A child specialist to represent your child’s voice
- A divorce coach to support respectful communication
- A financial advisor for budgeting and planning
This team keeps both parents accountable and focused on creating a sustainable co-parenting arrangement.
Step 3: Design a Personalized Parenting Plan
Collaborative divorce helps parents tailor plans that fit their unique family needs, including:
- Parenting time schedules
- Guidelines for holidays and school breaks
- Communication norms (calls, texts, emergency plans)
- How to make major decisions (education, healthcare)
Step 4: Practice Open, Flexible Communication
A successful co-parenting relationship requires:
- Ongoing communication about your child’s needs
- Willingness to adjust the parenting plan as circumstances change
- Respect for boundaries and roles
Step 5: Finalize and Implement the Agreement
Once you’ve worked through the major decisions:
- Your attorneys will draft a binding agreement
- It will be submitted for court approval, no litigation required
This formalized plan becomes the foundation of your co-parenting partnership.
One of the most significant parenting transitions you will experience is going from marriage to co-parenting. Collaborative divorce provides the foundation and assistance needed to protect your children, lessen conflict, and create a cooperative relationship that will last.
If you’re considering a collaborative divorce and need legal guidance, reach out to our experienced team at Shea Stevens Law, LLC, at 913-717-0797 for a consultation. During this session, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss your situation, ask questions, and learn more about how collaborative divorce can work for you.