Cooperative Divorce

Cooperative Divorce Attorneys In Oakland County

Helping Clients With Cooperative Divorce in Michigan

Collaborative law is an ideal choice when trust is high and the parties are able to communicate successfully. There are times, however, when the parties just cannot agree on certain issues and court may become necessary.

In such cases, many clients are often "bonded" to their lawyers in a relationship of trust and do not want to lose them and start all over. They are also fearful of the increased cost of starting from scratch with someone else.

For these situations, cooperative divorce may be the solution. Cooperative divorce was founded by a group of lawyers in Wisconsin. It is a principles-based and settlement-based process of handling divorce which leaves open the possibility of litigation if absolutely necessary.

Essentially, it offers all the benefits of collaborative law, such as:

Sets a framework for settlement
Reassures clients that attorneys will try to settle the case
Minimizes inefficiency and unnecessary costs
Promotes cooperative coparenting
Fosters civility and respect

Both parties and attorneys commit in good faith to do the following:

Cooperate by acting civilly at all times and by responding promptly to all reasonable requests for information from the other party
Cooperate by fully disclosing all relevant financial information
Cooperate by obtaining joint appraisals and/or other expert opinions before obtaining individual appraisals or expert opinions
Cooperate by obtaining meaningful expert input (e.g., a child specialist) before requesting a custody study or the appointment of a guardian ad litem
Cooperate in good faith negotiation sessions, including 4-way sessions where appropriate, to reach fair compromises based on valid information
Cooperate by conducting themselves at all times in a respectful, civil, and professional manner

The fact that lawyers begin with this proactive and positive mindset may bridge the gap for those clients who want the benefits of collaborative, but just can't bear to give up the option of going to court with their lawyer if needed.

Contact Us Today

We can help you determine if collaborative divorce is right for you, and can represent you throughout the progression of your case. Starting with a free consultation, we will provide you with valuable guidance at every step.

Call (248) 773-3317 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can I Retain My Attorney If My Cooperative Divorce in Oakland County Goes to Court?

Yes, one of the unique aspects of cooperative divorce in Oakland County is that you can retain your attorney even if the case goes to court. Unlike collaborative divorce, where attorneys withdraw from the case if it proceeds to litigation, cooperative divorce allows you to maintain the relationship of trust with your attorney throughout the entire process, including any necessary court appearances. This provides continuity and reassurance for clients who value the established relationship with their legal counsel.

What Steps Should I Take to Initiate a Cooperative Divorce in Michigan?

To initiate a cooperative divorce in Michigan, you should first consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable about the cooperative divorce process. During your free consultation, our team can help you understand if this approach is suitable for your situation. Our team can guide you through each step, from the first consultation to respectful negotiation sessions, to reach a settlement.

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Your Legal Team

Guiding You Every Step of the Way for Better Days Ahead

Mindy L. Hitchcock
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Mindy L. Hitchcock is the founder and managing attorney at Lady4Justice, PLLC. She has worked in the legal sector in Michigan for over three decades and prides herself on her holistic approach.
William-George
Alexander Johnson
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Alex attended the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering in 2008. He then attended Wayne State University Law School in 2011 while working for the firm. Although attending as a night student, which normally requires 4 years, Alex graduated in just three years, despite the heavy workload. He took the Bar in the summer of 2014.

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Hear What Our Clients Have to Say

“I was extremely impressed the way Mindy responded to a very painful situation and helped alleviate the tremendous anxiety with all the decisions that needed to be made.”
“Mindy definitely understood what we were going through and took that into consideration when working on the case. I never felt like just another number.”

- John M.
“Mindy is a fantastic attorney!”
“Mindy helped me tremendously through this uphill battle and I now spend nearly equal time with my child.”

- Jesse
“I couldn't be happier with my choice to retain Ms. Hitchcock and know exactly who I'll turn to if I happen to get involved in a legal issue again.”
“I have retained Ms. Hitchock twice now for civil matters and continue to be impressed my her diligence and professionalism.”

- Nate
“Very professional and fast in dealing with all legal correspondence.”
“Very professional and fast in Mindy is superb, smart, and wise! Super woman! She knows how to fight for her clients and she represented me very well, even when I was not present during the arbitration of my divorce process.dealing with all legal correspond”

- Sylvia J.
“Ms. Hitchcock, also possesses the skill, understanding and diplomatic knowledge and acumen to work with opposing counsel to seek out a fair and equitable settlement for both parties.”
“I chose Ms. Hitchcock, because, aside from her excellent reputation, innate professionalism, and the fact she is a mediator, she possessed a warm, engaging, compassionate understanding and acceptance of me as an LGBT person, and expressed the interest to l”

- Jennifer Marie
“Words can not explain the feelings I have right now. Thank you again Ms. Hitchcock.”
“Now after hiring Ms. Hitchcock I not only had immediate visitation with my daughter it was ordered for me to have unlimited phone contact and set visitation with her.”

- Rick W.
“You are a great person and lawyer. You have shown a lot of compassion to your clients.”
“My sincere thanks and appreciation for what you have done for me.”

- Eufrocina A.
“Mindy Hitchcock gave me strength, care, and understanding.”
“Her strategic thinking was prescient and the result of tremendous experience.”

- Noah

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