What Is a Collaborative Divorce in New York? by Richard Roman Shum

Описание: What Is a Collaborative Divorce in New York? by Richard Roman Shum

Thinking about divorce in Manhattan and wondering if there's a better way than going to court? In this video, we explore collaborative divorce, a cooperative legal process designed to help couples reach fair agreements without litigation. Instead of letting a judge decide, both spouses work together with trained attorneys and neutral professionals to resolve all divorce-related issues. This approach keeps things private, often saves time and money, and gives couples more control over the outcome.

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Richard Roman Shum, Esq., a divorce attorney based in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, helps guide families through collaborative divorce. At the Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq., clients receive legal support that focuses on respectful negotiation and practical solutions. Richard Shum holds degrees from Suffolk University School of Law, Washington University in St. Louis, and Emerson College. As a parent himself, he understands the importance of maintaining stability and reducing conflict, especially when children are involved.

The collaborative divorce process starts with a participation agreement. This legal document confirms both spouses’ intent to resolve their differences without court involvement. A key feature of this agreement is the disqualification clause: if either party decides to move forward with litigation, both collaborative attorneys must withdraw. This structure creates a strong incentive for open, productive discussions and reinforces a shared commitment to reaching a settlement.

Each spouse works with a collaborative divorce attorney trained in interest-based negotiation. Many of these attorneys are members of the New York Association of Collaborative Professionals, a group that promotes best practices in the field. Joint meetings allow spouses and their attorneys to work through key issues such as property division, spousal support, and parenting arrangements. These sessions may include additional professionals like financial neutrals, child specialists, or divorce coaches who help clarify finances, develop parenting plans, and manage communication.

The process requires full financial disclosure, which is essential under New York Domestic Relations Law § 170. Whether you're dividing assets, discussing retirement accounts, or creating a plan for shared parenting, transparency ensures fairness. Once both parties reach an agreement, the attorneys draft a settlement document. This agreement is submitted to the Manhattan Supreme Court at 60 Centre Street for review and approval.

For those who value privacy, collaborative divorce keeps negotiations confidential. Only the final settlement is part of the public record. This makes it a good option for business owners, professionals, or anyone concerned about sensitive financial or personal details becoming public.

If you’re unsure where to begin, the Collaborative Family Law Center at 80 Centre Street in Lower Manhattan offers referrals to collaborative attorneys throughout the city. Whether you live in Midtown, the Upper East Side, or the Financial District, Manhattan has resources to support a smoother divorce process.

To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact the Law Office of Richard Roman Shum, Esq. at (646) 259-3416. We help clients across Manhattan make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

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