Collaborative Divorce Suitability Quiz

Answer 7 questions to find out whether collaborative divorce is likely a good fit for your situation — or whether a different approach may serve you better.

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How This Works

Collaborative divorce is a structured legal process where both spouses — each with their own attorney — commit to resolving all issues outside of court. It works well in many situations, but not every case is a good fit. This quiz assesses the key factors that determine whether the collaborative process is likely to succeed for you. Answer honestly — there are no right or wrong responses.

Progress
0 of 7 answered
Communication
1 Even though your marriage is ending, can you and your spouse communicate about practical matters — parenting, finances, logistics — without it consistently becoming hostile, threatening, or completely breaking down?
Financial Transparency
2 Do you believe your spouse would voluntarily and honestly disclose their full financial picture — income, assets, debts, and accounts — without needing to be compelled by a court order?
Willingness to Negotiate
3 Are both you and your spouse open to negotiating a settlement — even if it means compromise on both sides — rather than leaving the outcome entirely to a judge?
Children & Co-Parenting
4 If you have children together, do you believe both of you can set aside personal conflict and prioritise your children's wellbeing over individual legal victories?
Safety & Power Balance
5 Has there been a history of domestic violence, abuse, threats, intimidation, or coercive control in your relationship?

Your safety matters above all else. A history of abuse or coercive control significantly affects the suitability of collaborative divorce. In these situations, the power dynamics can make genuine negotiation very difficult. Please speak with an attorney privately — we can help you understand your options in a confidential setting. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. The National DV Hotline is available 24/7: 1-800-799-7233.

Self-Advocacy
6 Do you feel confident that you can speak up for your own interests and needs in a negotiation setting — that you won't be easily pressured or talked out of positions that matter to you?
Hidden Assets & Bad Faith
7 Do you have significant concerns that your spouse may be hiding assets, concealing income, or is approaching this divorce in bad faith — intent on using the process against you rather than working toward a fair resolution?

Answer all 7 questions to see your result.

Your Suitability Result

Answer all 7 questions and click See My Suitability Result to find out whether collaborative divorce may be right for you.

What Is Collaborative Divorce?

In a collaborative divorce, both spouses retain their own attorneys and commit in writing to resolving all issues — property, support, custody — without going to court. If the process breaks down, both attorneys must withdraw and the parties start over with new counsel. That commitment is what makes it work.

Collaborative Divorce vs. Litigation

Both paths can lead to a fair outcome — but they get there very differently. The right choice depends on your circumstances, not just your preferences.

Collaborative Divorce

  • Both parties control the outcome — not a judge
  • Private — no public court record of your finances or disputes
  • Typically faster and less expensive than litigation
  • Designed to preserve the co-parenting relationship
  • Flexible — can address emotional and practical needs beyond what a court would order
  • Brigantine Law's founding specialty

Litigation

  • A judge decides unresolved issues — parties have less control
  • Court proceedings are public record
  • Typically longer timelines and higher legal fees
  • Formal discovery tools available — depositions, subpoenas
  • May be necessary when one party is uncooperative or deceptive
  • Brigantine attorney is an experienced trial litigator when it's needed

Ready to Explore Collaborative Divorce?

Brigantine Law has practised collaborative divorce since the firm's founding. We can walk you through whether it's the right fit — in plain English, with no obligation.