Austin Collaborative Divorce Attorney

Last updated on February 24, 2025

Collaborative divorce is an alternative to litigation for divorcing couples. Although sometimes the best course of action, litigation can often be unpredictable, expensive, inconvenient and destructive to the personal relationships of those involved. The collaborative divorce process involves working together with a team of professionals in order to negotiate terms that are equitable to both parties.

At Benouis Law Ltd., LLP, attorney Catherine Benouis has more than 30 years of experience in family law and has been certified as a specialist in the field by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, one of fewer than 50 lawyers to have obtained that designation. When you retain Ms. Benouis, you can trust that you are hiring an attorney who is skilled, knowledgeable and completely dedicated to your best interests.

Forms:

• Litigation Process vs. Collaborative Process
• Road-map to Resolution Using the Collaborative Process
• Focusing on Interests in the Collaborative Process
• Collaborative Law Participation Agreement

Make sure your interests are protected. Contact the firm today at 512-764-3932 to learn how Ms. Benouis can help.

What Is The Collaborative Divorce Process?

Going through a divorce can be challenging, but a collaborative divorce offers a more amicable approach. This process allows you and your spouse to work together to reach an agreement without going to court. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it works:  

1. Initial consultation: First, you’ll meet with a collaborative divorce attorney who will walk you through the process and determine whether it’s suitable for your situation. You and your spouse will each need your own legal team.  
2. Signing the participation agreement: Next, the spouse and lawyers on each team sign a participation agreement, which demonstrates everyone’s commitment to the collaborative process. It includes an important rule: if the process doesn’t work, both attorneys must step aside, and you will need to find new lawyers if you decide to go to court.  
3. Drafting a settlement agreement: Together, you and your spouse will work on a settlement agreement that covers all aspects of your divorce. This agreement will outline arrangements for child support, custody, visitation, alimony and property division. Once you both agree and sign, this document is filed with the family court.   
4. Seeking additional support: Throughout the process, you can seek help from mental health and financial professionals. Divorce can be emotionally challenging, and mental health professionals can provide valuable support. You can also work with financial professionals, such as accountants or financial planners, to get guidance on the economic aspects of divorce. If you have children, a child specialist can help minimize the impact of the divorce and help you create effective co-parenting plans.  

When you work with a team of professionals, the collaborative divorce process becomes more supportive. This approach doesn’t just focus on the legal and financial aspects of the divorce. It also considers the emotional and mental well-being of all the people involved, leading to a healthier and more peaceful solution for everyone. 

What Are The Advantages Of Collaborative Divorce?

In most cases, results are predictable, the costs are less than litigation, and the scheduling of meetings is determined by agreement rather than by the court. Divorcing couples can respectfully and efficiently direct their resources toward a dignified parting of company and focus on how best to move forward. The end goal of collaborative divorce is a functioning, restructured family.

Although it is a different process from litigation, a collaborative divorce is still a divorce and tough issues are addressed. Sometimes, how people proceed through a divorce is as or almost as important as the specific issues people deal with. The collaborative process provides a structured option to complete a divorce without going to court.

Don’t Wait To Get Started. Call 512-764-3932 Today.

If you are even considering the possibility of divorce, it’s important to reach out to an experienced Austin divorce attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and interests. Even a collaborative divorce can be an emotional roller coaster, so you need someone on your side who is looking out for your best interests.

You’ll find the compassionate, skilled representation you need at Benouis Law Ltd., LLP. Attorney Catherine Benouis, board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in family law, has spent nearly two decades as a certified family law specialist in family law and will put her extensive knowledge to work for you when you retain the firm.

The firm is dedicated to helping families get through tough times. Call 512-764-3932 to secure the representation you need.