Collaborative law is a process by which the attorneys for both parties work together, often with the parties in the room, through a series of meetings to try to resolve the divorce in a peaceful and respectful manner. Collaborative attorneys will discuss this alternative form of legal representation at the initial meeting, plus they will provide information on their website.

Before hiring a divorce law attorney, check them out through Martindale-Hubbell or a similar rating service. Martindale-Hubbell rates attorneys by ethical standards and general ability all over the U.S. and abroad. The best rating for any attorney is AV.

Divorce law is both complex and variable according to which state you live in, so be sure to contact an attorney in your area who has plenty of experience. You should consult with several before you narrow your choice down; you can usually get free consultations with most lawyers.