Although celebrity divorces often become media fodder, there are occasional lessons to be learned. Specifically, couples that are concerned about making their custody dispute or asset holdings a matter of public record might follow the recent example of Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt.
According to a recent article, Jolie’s attorney prefers to keep high-profile, high-asset cases out of the courtroom. The article further speculates that Jolie may opt for alternative dispute resolution, or ADR, to negotiate a custody and visitation proposal with Pitt behind closed doors. The term actually refers to several different out-of-court procedures, including arbitration, mediation and negotiation.
Florida courts recognize ADR as a way for parties to resolve their disputes without judicial intervention. In ADR, a neutral third party hears each side before issuing a decision.
Unfortunately, the arbitrator’s decision is usually binding, so many couples prefer mediation for its greater flexibility. In mediation, a neutral third party works with each party to identify areas of agreement and a settlement agreement. However, the mediator cannot force the parties to agree to a settlement. That means that the parties retain the right to return to litigation.
Our Orlando divorce law firm has experience with several alternatives to divorce litigation. A new method that has gained popularity across the country is called collaborative divorce. The approach requires attorneys who are specifically trained in collaborative law to work with the couple to resolve issues of child support, child custody, property division and alimony. The unique feature of collaborative law is that he attorneys will withdraw if the settlement fails. Our law firm is proud to provide collaborative divorce services to our clients in Orlando and greater Florida.
Source: The Guardian, “Queen of divorce: Angelina Jolie hires expert in separating Hollywood royalty,” Rory Carroll, Sept. 23, 2016
