A divorce is often more than a legal dissolution. It can include property division, alimony payments, moving out of the family home and reaching child custody and support agreements for many Michigan couples. Even with all of these changes, property division and other aspects of a divorce can be done amicably, and cost less using alternatives divorce options over going to trial.

Mediation and collaborative divorce approaches are two ways couples can reach a settlement. This settlement can include basically all the workings of a divorce. These options require that both sides are willing to negotiate. If both spouses aren't willing to negotiate, these options are more likely to fall apart.

Using mediation, two people sit down in front of a mediator, who works with the couple to a mutual agreement that recognizes the needs of both spouses and their children. Once all the terms of the divorce are worked out with a mediator, the couple files their divorce with the court. Depending on the amount of property to be divided and the number of children involved in the process, the length of mediation can vary.

Collaborative law is another way to seek a divorce. This involves two attorneys that sit down and negotiate for each spouse. To ensure that each attorney works to resolve the dispute outside of court, the attorneys would not represent the spouses should negotiations break down and the couple takes their case to trial.

Although these options aren't for every Michigan couple, property division and child support can be negotiated outside of court depending on the couple's unique situation. Speaking with a divorce attorney can help someone decide what option is right for them.

Source: Patch, "Alternatives to a Contested Divorce," Jeremy T. Simons, Esq., Feb. 13, 2012