RESOURCES
Learn More Before You Decide
Answers, resources, and people who can help.
Upcoming Events
MONTHLY
First Fridays
5:00 pm
FREE MONTHLY ZOOM EVENT
First Fridays @ Five
Join members of Jacksonville Collaborative Divorce for a focused one-hour conversation about the collaborative process, practical next steps, and common questions.
First Friday of each month through November 2026
5:00–6:00 p.m. | By Zoom | Free to attend
Attend anonymously. Open to anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative Divorce is a voluntary legal process for resolving family-law matters without asking a judge to decide each issue. Both spouses sign a participation agreement and each works with their own collaborative attorney. Neutral Facilitators and Financial Neutrals may also be included when their support would help.
How is Collaborative Divorce different from mediation or a traditional court divorce?
In a traditional litigated divorce, unresolved issues may be presented to a judge. Mediation uses a neutral mediator to help people negotiate. Collaborative Divorce is an ongoing, team-based process in which each spouse has independent legal guidance and the team works through legal, financial, parenting, and communication concerns in structured meetings. Mediation may also be used within the collaborative process when both spouses agree.
Do both spouses have to agree, and do we each need an attorney?
Yes. The process is voluntary, so both spouses must choose to participate. Florida’s collaborative law process also requires each spouse to be represented by their own collaborative attorney.
How long does the process take, and how much does it cost?
No two families require the same amount of time or professional support. Timing and cost depend on the complexity of the issues, the number of meetings, the professionals involved, and how efficiently information and decisions can be handled. A professional can explain their rates, retainers, and the likely team structure before you begin.
What happens if we cannot reach an agreement?
Either spouse may end the collaborative process. If the matter moves into contested litigation, the collaborative attorneys generally cannot continue as litigation counsel, so each spouse would need new representation. This commitment is explained before the process begins.
Meet Your Collaborative Team
Collaborative Attorney
For legal questions, divorce process guidance, and understanding your rights and responsibilities.
Financial Neutral
For questions about money, property, budgets, and long-term financial decisions.
Neutral Facilitator
For communication, parenting concerns, and keeping the process focused and constructive.
Recommended Reading
Don’t Choose Between Support and Strength During Divorce
When people are going through divorce, they often hear the words: “You’re so strong.”
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When Marriage Starts to Feel Heavy
Most marriages don’t fall apart all at once. More often, something quieter happens first.
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The Reason that Collaboration is Better than Litigation
In Litigation, you are forced to prove to the judge with evidence.
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Collaborative Divorce for Jacksonville Families
Jacksonville Collaborative Divorce brings together local legal, mental health, and financial professionals who help families move through divorce with more support, less conflict, and a clearer understanding of their choices.