The number of people seeking divorce nationwide was 34 percent higher from March through June compared to 2019, according to recent data. Couples admit that stress, unemployment, finances, death, illness, homeschooling, and mental illnesses have all contributed to the fractures in marital relationships.
While some have sought divorce already, others may wonder what options they have as they begin the family restructuring process. Scranton family lawyer Craig Kalinoski explains what options you have if you are considering divorce or other alternatives.
Divorce, Separation, Mediation: Know Your Family Restructuring Options
Many couples think that to call an end to the relationship means that they have to file for divorce. While in many cases that is true, you do have other options.
- Divorce: In Pennsylvania, the most common divorces are no-fault, meaning that both parties have come to an agreement that the marriage wasn’t working. While you will likely still need to go to court to settle support payments and custody schedules if applicable, divorce doesn’t have to be the contentious battle it can be made out to be.
- Collaborative Divorce: When you know that you need a divorce from your partner but do not want to go through the heartache of the formal divorce process, the collaborative divorce option may be right for you. It tends to be more efficient in both time and money and allows both parties to negotiate and come to a settlement that benefits each person and any children involved in the relationship.
- Separation: If you know divorce is likely in your future but aren’t sure how to proceed or if you are positive that you want to, a separation may be a viable option for you and your family. A separation agreement allows spouses to resolve their personal matters, including division of property, debts, custody, and child and spousal support without the formality of a divorce. If later you decide to move forward with the process, you have the option to do so. Conversely, if you want to give the marriage another try, you can also work with your spouse to come to an agreement.
- Mediation: If you and your ex do not have the finances to go through with a traditional divorce, divorce mediation is another alternative. It allows you both to work with a neutral third party who can help you navigate the needs of each while keeping in mind the best interests of any children involved. And, if the mediation process proves unsuccessful, you are able to take them to court for a divorce.
Breaking off a marriage is devastating to all parties involved, even when the split is mutual and in the best interests of all. However, knowing that you don’t have to go through what is considered an ugly breakup via a traditional divorce is sometimes the confidence needed to get out of an unhappy or unsafe situation.
If you are looking into restructuring your family unit, know that you have someone on your side through it all–Attorney Craig Kalinoski.
Divorce, Separation, and Mediation: Kalinoski Law Offices
With a track record of success in Lackawanna County, divorce attorney Craig P. Kalinoski has proven his abilities as both a tough negotiator and an experienced litigator who earns fair resolutions for couples looking to end a marriage. While times are uncertain right now, that doesn’t mean you have to feel stuck in an unhappy marriage or be voiceless in your own separation.
Whether you need someone in your collaborative divorce process who can be neutral to the situation or a strong negotiator in the courtroom, Attorney Kalinoski will fight for your rights and the preservation of your family unit. If you have questions about family restructuring, contact the Scranton family lawyer, Craig Kalinoski, today.