Marital Dissolution
When you and your spouse have reached agreement on the terms of your separation, document preparation and filing assistance is provided to complete the legal process with clarity, dignity, and efficiency.
Collaborative Dissolution — Not Litigation
This practice is for couples who are ready to work together through the dissolution process. The team provides guidance, prepares all required legal documents, and helps ensure nothing is overlooked. This is not a litigation practice — contested custody, adversarial property disputes, and courtroom proceedings are not handled here.
If your situation requires adversarial representation, referrals can be provided to Alden Kinsley, a litigation firm experienced in family law matters.
The Approach
Completing the process you've already started.
When couples make the difficult decision to separate and work together to reach agreement on terms, they deserve efficient, dignified assistance completing the legal requirements. The focus is on accurate document preparation, proper filing, and clear guidance through the court process.
Too many people go through this process feeling confused, overwhelmed, or taken advantage of. The collaborative approach is designed to be different — clear communication, predictable costs, and honest guidance about what to expect at every step.
Core Principles
Collaborative, Not Adversarial
This practice is built around guiding both parties through the dissolution process cooperatively. If your situation involves active disputes, contested custody, or requires courtroom advocacy, a different type of firm is needed — and referrals are always available.
Both Parties Should Understand All Terms
Before signing, each party should fully understand every provision. Both parties are encouraged to have the final documents reviewed by independent counsel if they have any questions about whether the terms protect their individual interests.
Transparent Process from Start to Finish
The scope of work, timeline, and costs are discussed clearly during the initial consultation. There are no surprises. If something falls outside what collaborative dissolution can address, that's communicated early so you can make informed decisions.
Document Services
Documents prepared for your dissolution.
Each situation is unique, but these are the core document services available for uncontested dissolutions.
Uncontested Dissolution
When you and your spouse have reached agreement on all terms, attorneys prepare the legal documents required by your state, ensure proper filing, and guide you through the court process. This service is for couples who have already resolved property division, support, and parenting arrangements.
Separation Agreements
A separation agreement formalizes the terms you and your spouse have negotiated, covering property division, debt allocation, support arrangements, and parenting schedules. This written agreement becomes the foundation for your dissolution filing.
Property Division Documentation
Attorneys prepare the deeds, titles, and transfer documents needed to implement your agreed property division. This includes real estate transfers, vehicle titles, retirement account divisions, and business interest assignments.
Parenting Plan Documentation
For couples with children who have already agreed on custody and parenting time, your arrangements are documented in the format required by your jurisdiction. Clear, comprehensive plans help avoid future misunderstandings.
The Process
What to expect from start to finish.
Initial Review
The process begins with a conversation to understand your situation and confirm that the dissolution is uncontested. Attorneys review what you and your spouse have agreed upon and identify any areas that need clarification before proceeding.
30-45 minutes
Agreement Documentation
Based on the terms you've agreed to, a comprehensive separation agreement is prepared covering property, debts, support, and if applicable, parenting arrangements. You'll have time to review everything carefully.
5-7 business days
Document Review
A meeting is held to review all prepared documents together, answer questions, and make any needed revisions. Both parties must understand and agree to all terms before signing.
30-45 minutes
Execution & Filing
Once finalized, signing is coordinated with proper notarization and documents are filed with the appropriate court. Guidance is provided on any required waiting periods and court appearances.
Varies by jurisdiction
Final Decree
After the court reviews and approves your filing, you receive your final decree of dissolution. It is reviewed with you to ensure you understand any ongoing obligations or next steps.
30-90 days typically
Common Questions
Questions about collaborative dissolution.
What does 'uncontested' or 'collaborative' dissolution mean?
It means you and your spouse have decided to move forward and are willing to work together on the terms — property division, financial arrangements, and if applicable, parenting plans. You don't need to have every detail figured out before you call. The team helps you think through what needs to be addressed and guides you through each step. The key is that both parties are approaching the process cooperatively, not adversarially.
What if we haven't agreed on everything yet?
That's completely normal. Most couples have some areas that need discussion. The team helps facilitate productive conversations and provides the legal framework so you can make informed decisions together. If a specific issue becomes genuinely contested and can't be resolved collaboratively, referrals can be made to litigation counsel — but most couples working in good faith are able to reach agreement with proper guidance.
Do you handle custody disputes or contested divorces?
No. Relevant Law focuses exclusively on collaborative, non-adversarial dissolution. Custody battles, contested property disputes, and courtroom litigation require a different type of practice. For contested family matters, clients are referred to Alden Kinsley, a litigation firm experienced in those areas. The focus here is on helping people who want to move forward constructively.
How is this different from hiring a traditional divorce lawyer?
Traditional divorce representation is built around advocacy — one lawyer fights for one side. Collaborative dissolution is built around resolution. The team guides both parties through the legal process, ensures all required documents are properly prepared, and helps you understand your options at each step. It's faster, less expensive, and far less stressful than adversarial proceedings.
How long does the process typically take?
Most collaborative dissolutions are completed in 4 to 8 weeks from the initial consultation through final filing. The timeline depends on how quickly both parties can gather financial information and finalize decisions. After filing, most states have a mandatory waiting period before the court issues the final decree — typically 30 to 90 days depending on your jurisdiction.
What does the process cost?
Collaborative dissolution is significantly less expensive than contested divorce. Relevant Law offers transparent, predictable pricing so you know what to expect before the process begins. Specific pricing is discussed during the initial consultation and depends on the complexity of your situation — whether children are involved, the nature of shared assets, and your state's requirements.
Can we do this remotely or do we need to come to the office?
Both options are available. Many couples prefer virtual consultations for convenience, especially when coordinating schedules. Certain steps — like document signing — may require in-person attendance depending on your state's notarization requirements, but the team works to make the process as flexible as possible.
What documents will we need to provide?
You'll need basic financial information: income documentation, a list of assets and debts, property records, and if applicable, information about your children. A detailed checklist is provided after the initial consultation so you know exactly what to gather. The team walks you through everything — you don't need to have it all organized before your first call.
What if one of us changes our mind during the process?
The collaborative process only works when both parties are engaged in good faith. If one party decides they no longer want to proceed collaboratively, the process pauses and options are discussed. In most cases, concerns can be addressed and the process continues. If the matter becomes truly contested, referrals to appropriate litigation counsel are provided.
Do we each need our own lawyer?
In a collaborative dissolution, the team guides both parties through the legal process and prepares all required documents. Both parties are encouraged to have the final documents reviewed by independent counsel if they wish — and referrals can be provided. Many couples find that the collaborative approach provides sufficient guidance without the cost of two separate legal teams.
Related Services
Ready to complete the process?
If you and your spouse have reached agreement and are ready to formalize your dissolution, the team is here to help with the paperwork and process.