People receive guidance from a variety of individuals throughout their lives. Be it from our parents, bosses, high school coaches and teachers; advice on how to tackle something is often invaluable. A rather recent development in California, and around the country, has brought structured guidance into the divorce process as well through divorce coaches.
Divorce coaches can assist in a number of ways from acting as a liaison between people and their attorneys to providing emotional support. From filing for divorce to divorce mediation to obtaining the final divorce decree, a divorce coach might accompany one along that entire journey. Whether a divorce coach is a good idea, however, depends on an individual’s preferences.
California residents are aware that divorce can be a tiring process. Divorce coaches have begun to assist by relieving some of the stress involved in divorce proceedings. For example, divorce coaches may help ensure communication with a former spouse goes smoothly. A divorce coach might attempt to get a strong understanding of the dynamic between the divorcing couple in order to determine what type of divorce process to procure.
Divorce mediation, for example, is one alternative to the traditional divorce process. Mediation involves a neutral mediator who assists the parties in coming to an agreement on a number of decisions pertaining to the divorce. The benefit of mediation is that it occurs in a much less adversarial environment than the courtroom. Divorcing spouses are permitted to work together, with the guidance of the mediator, to work out any divorce issues. A divorce coach who gets to know the spouses may recognize that mediation is the right avenue for the separating couple.
Although a divorce coach may be beneficial for some couples, obtaining experienced legal counsel is also important. An attorney will look out for their client’s best interests while helping both parties move forward with their lives in a timely manner.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Divorce Coach: 3 Things A Divorce Coach Can Do For You,” Geoff Williams, Sept. 19, 2012
