New Michigan “Fast Track” Processes
Are you interested in using the new Michigan fast track processes for your matter but don’t know where to begin?
There are 4 main ways to initiate a fast track divorce in Michigan:
Streamline Divorce℠
Process
Streamline Divorce℠ is the most cost-effective process for clients (a) who have a basic agreement with his or her spouse or (b) who believe that it is possible to work out an agreement with his or her spouse with the right materials and a template to guide them through the required decisions.
Streamline Divorce℠ is a three-stage, form-based process unique to Banfield Couling, PLLC. By utilizing our proven form-based system, Clients reduce costs by working through the settlement process with their spouse utilizing our forms, with the assurance that an experienced attorney will review the agreement and handle their court matter with professionalism and care. This process can involve flat fees and also can be expended with hourly services to handle more complex or unique issues.
To learn more about the steps of the Streamline Divorce℠ Process, click below:
To initiate the Streamline Divorce℠ process contact us for our current fee pricing menu (please specify your County of residence) and Retainer Deposit form.
Early Stage Mediation
Process
Mediation can be the first step to using a "fast track” process and avoiding a divorce lawsuit. Starting the mediation process before any divorce or other court action is filed is a good choice for parties who want to avoid a traditional divorce lawsuit. Early stage mediation is suitable (a) when the parties are unable to agree on all of the issues and (b) when the parties agree that it would be beneficial to have a neutral, experienced professional guiding them through the decision-making process.
The mediator serves as a neutral. Mediation fees are incurred on an hourly basis. Online mediation now permits added convenience and potential cost-savings. Both parties are free to have their own separate attorneys advise them throughout the mediation process and review any Mediation Agreement before it is signed.
Our mediation process starts with a short, private session with each spouse separately, then usually is conducted with both parties and the mediator. Break out sessions can take place, as necessary. We now offer our mediation services online via Zoom and in traditional “in person” meetings when possible.
To learn more about or initiate the Mediation process, contact us for information on the early stage Mediation process and our Mediation Retainer Agreement. We also offer a brief complimentary overview consultation (for both parties) upon request.
Attorney-Assisted Negotiation
Process
Attorney-assisted negotiation can be useful in certain cases, when Streamline Divorce℠ and Mediation are not the right fit, but the parties can agree that they want to avoid a traditional divorce lawsuit. We have helped many clients successfully reach a satisfactory settlement agreement even though their case may not have been amicable or simple. We can provide assessments and legal services on an hourly basis. This often is referred to as Limited Scope (by the hour) representation.
Common reasons to use the Limited Scope Representation approach in working toward a “fast track” settlement include:
The client’s finances are complex.
Business interests are involved.
The client wishes for the Attorney to initiate and manage communications with his/her spouse.
There may be unresolved issues of child support or parenting time.
There may be unresolved issues of spousal support.
Issues or technical details must be worked out regarding retirement assets.
To learn more about or work with our office on a Limited Scope basis, contact us for information on Limited Scope Representation and our Limited Scope Retainer Agreement. We also offer a brief complimentary overview consultation upon request.
Collaborative Divorce
Process
In a Collaborative Divorce case, both parties and their attorneys work together privately, while formally agreeing to stay out of court until they reach a mutually acceptable resolution.
A joint process is used to gather information and make informed decisions. Other professionals assist as needed to help the parties address the specific facts and issues important to their matter. These professionals can include financial professionals, mental health professionals, mediators, appraisers, etc.
The Collaborative Divorce process requires special training and is subject to certain statutes and court rules to make it a highly effective and personalized method for reaching unique settlements in divorce and other family matters. We are proud to say that all of the attorneys at Banfield Couling Law & Mediation, PLLC have been trained and are certified in Collaborative Divorce practice.
To learn more about or retain our office for a Collaborative Divorce matter, contact us for information on Collaborative Practice and our Collaborative Divorce Retainer Agreement. We also offer a brief complimentary overview consultation upon request.