Quiet Divorcing: The Perils of a New Relationship Trend (3 of 3)

Alternatives to Quiet Divorcing

If you and your partner are looking for a solution that is short, sweet, and minimizes the drama, here are some options to consider:

One lawyer for both parties: Instead of taking an adversarial approach in which two divorce lawyers are pitted against each other, the couple can choose to work together with one legal professional. It can result in an agreement that both sides consider fair.

Arbitration: This option entails hiring a neutral third party (usually a retired judge) who makes a binding decision. It’s private, confidential, and unlike the court system isn’t backlogged, allowing for a fasttrack divorce.

Mediation: Although this would involve you and your spouse hiring separate lawyers, it would nonetheless foster collaboration and communication, and produce terms that don’t require court involvement.

Separation agreement: There may be legitimate reasons to hold off on making a divorce final (e.g., when tax considerations are important), in which case a formalized arrangement regarding boundaries, living arrangements, financial commitments, and child custody can be hammered out, which helps maintain civility and preserves clarity.

On the surface, quiet divorcing sounds like a practical solution for avoiding conflict, but in reality it creates messy legal “grey zones,” not to mention emotional stress amongst the entire family. If a marriage is coming to an end, communication and clarity are essential. Choosing the right divorce strategy—whether it’s through cooperation with one lawyer, arbitration, mediation, or a proactive separation agreement—ensures that the divorce can be done in a way that is peaceful and transparent.