For several years, Maxim Smith Family Law has been assisting clients who want to amicably divorce by preparing the documents that incorporate the agreement they have reached and guiding them through the court process. We call this approach a Friendly Divorce. A Friendly Divorce is great option for couples who are in agreement on all aspects of their divorce and simply need a lawyer to draft their divorce documents and finalize their divorce for them, including filing the matter with the court. Since attorneys are ethically prohibited from representing both parties in a divorce, only one spouse needs to hire us in order to get the job done.
This already streamlined approach to divorce is made even more efficient by the fact that it can be completed digitally, without in-person meetings with an attorney and, in many cases, either spouse having to show up for in-person court hearings. Now, with the global COVID-19 pandemic restricting our ability to meet in person, a Friendly Divorce is a great option for those who don’t want to “wait it out” before getting divorced.
The Benefits of a Friendly Divorce
One of the key concepts in a Friendly Divorce is that the spouses have a lot of trust for each other. This allows them to easily share information, discuss the issues, and work out the terms of their agreement. It may be different from a traditional divorce in the sense that there is likely less conflict and fewer disputes in a Friendly Divorce. Many of these more contentious divorces must be pursued in court because the spouses just can’t agree on the terms of the divorce. This can be a long and expensive process which makes the divorce much more taxing on both parties’ mental and emotional well-being. By contrast, here are some benefits of a Friendly Divorce:
- Predictable. Our process is refined and we know exactly what next steps will be in your friendly divorce.
- Affordable. You can be certain of the fees and costs for your entire divorce at the outset. Pursuing a Friendly Divorce is significantly more cost-effective than a traditional divorce
- Takes Less Time. A Friendly Divorce will typically take between 2 weeks and 4 months, depending on how long it takes you and your spouse to reach a final agreement.
- Efficient. One member of the couple enters into a Retainer Agreement with Maxim Smith Family Law.
- Can be Completed Online. You may fully complete your divorce, including e-signing legally binding documents, from the safety and privacy of your own home.
Getting A Divorce in Minnesota Without Leaving Your Home
Friendly Divorce isn’t just beneficial because it saves our clients time and money. If you decide to pursue a digital Friendly Divorce, this approach will also keep you safe during the pandemic by avoiding in-person meetings.
The CDC has recommended all Americans follow social distancing guidelines, and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s recent Stay Safe Order also continues to encourage Minnesotans to stay close to home in an effort to keep our state safe. But this Order has not nullified our constitutional rights, and the Minnesota court system remains operational – albeit in a modified fashion.
So, has the extra time you’ve spent at home with your spouse been enough to convince you it’s time to get divorced? With a Friendly Divorce, you have the ability to craft, approve, and sign your agreement with our firm’s guidance. You can then digitally file for divorce with the assistance of our family law attorneys. After a judge has approved the paperwork, your divorce will be finalized. It’s a quick and relatively painless process, which means you can start building the foundation for your new life right away.
Pursue A Digital Divorce with Maxim Smith Family Law
If you and your spouse agree on important things like your children, as well as debt and asset division, you can save thousands of dollars by considering a digital Friendly Divorce. In a matter of weeks or months, and from the safety and comfort of your home, you can use the latest technology to sign and file all court documents and finalize your divorce.
Do you want to learn more about your digital divorce options? As previously mentioned, Maxim Smith Family Law cannot represent both spouses in a divorce. Either you or your spouse may contact our team by calling 651-294-2407 to set up a digital consultation. We’re prepared to get your divorce filed quickly, and we’ll adapt to the changing court guidelines as needed to see your divorce through.