Collaborative Divorce Attorney in DuPage and Cook County, Illinois
When spouses decide to divorce, the process does not have to be hostile or drawn out in court. Many couples want to separate respectfully, keep control over their decisions, and protect their children from conflict. A collaborative divorce allows you to do exactly that.
At Kulerski & Cornelison, attorney Kari Cornelison helps clients throughout DuPage County and Cook County approach divorce in a cooperative and constructive way. With more than twenty years of experience in Illinois family law, she focuses on solutions that minimize stress, save money, and encourage communication. Her collaborative approach to divorce helps families transition with dignity and fairness.
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What Is Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative divorce is a structured process that allows both spouses and their attorneys to work together toward an agreed-upon settlement. Instead of preparing for trial, the couple and their lawyers commit to resolving all issues outside the courtroom. Everyone agrees from the outset that if the process fails and litigation becomes necessary, both attorneys will withdraw, and new counsel will take over. This ensures that everyone involved is fully committed to reaching a peaceful resolution.
The collaborative model is ideal for couples who want to maintain control over their decisions and preserve family relationships, especially when children are involved. It emphasizes communication, honesty, and respect throughout every step of the divorce process.
How the Collaborative Process Works in Illinois
A collaborative divorce follows a series of structured meetings designed to help spouses identify goals, exchange information, and work toward mutually acceptable solutions. Both parties agree to share all relevant financial and personal information voluntarily rather than through formal court discovery. Each spouse is represented by an attorney trained in collaborative law who provides guidance and advocacy without turning the process into a fight.
Sometimes, neutral professionals such as financial specialists, parenting coordinators, or mental health facilitators are included to help address specific issues like child arrangements or property valuation. These professionals act as part of the collaborative team, focusing on problem-solving rather than winning or losing. Once an agreement is reached, the attorneys prepare a written settlement and submit it to the court for approval, finalizing the divorce.
Benefits of Collaborative Divorce
A collaborative divorce offers many advantages for couples who want to handle their separation with care and integrity. It can often be completed faster than a contested divorce because there are fewer court appearances and delays. The process also tends to be less expensive since both parties share information openly and work toward settlement instead of litigation.
Most importantly, a collaborative divorce keeps the decision-making power in your hands. You and your spouse design the outcome rather than allowing a judge to decide for you. The process also encourages cooperation, which is particularly valuable when you share children and must continue communicating as co-parents. By resolving disputes in a respectful environment, families can begin the next chapter with a stronger foundation for the future.
Collaborative Divorce vs. Traditional Divorce
A traditional divorce often involves a series of court filings, formal discovery requests, and contested hearings. The process can take months or even years and often increases hostility between spouses. A collaborative divorce takes the opposite approach. It removes the threat of court and focuses on teamwork and mutual problem-solving.
Rather than relying on legal motions and judges, the couple and their attorneys meet face-to-face to resolve issues directly. This approach helps reduce the emotional toll of divorce and often results in agreements that are more practical and tailored to each family’s needs. It also gives both parties the opportunity to preserve privacy, since the details of the negotiations remain confidential rather than becoming part of the public court record.
When Collaborative Divorce Works Best
Collaborative divorce works best when both spouses share a willingness to cooperate and communicate honestly. It is particularly effective for couples who want to protect their children from the negative effects of litigation, who wish to preserve a positive co-parenting relationship, and who prefer to handle their divorce quietly and privately.
It may not be the right choice when one spouse is unwilling to disclose finances, refuses to participate in good faith, or when there are concerns about safety or power imbalance. In those cases, other forms of dispute resolution such as mediation or traditional representation may be more appropriate. Kari Cornelison carefully evaluates each situation and provides guidance on whether collaborative divorce is the best path forward.
Issues Resolved Through Collaborative Divorce
Even though the process is cooperative, all major legal issues must still be addressed before the divorce can be finalized. These include property and debt division, allocation of parental responsibilities, parenting time, child support, and spousal maintenance. Collaborative divorce provides a forum to discuss each of these topics constructively and arrive at fair, balanced solutions that reflect both parties’ priorities.
Kari Cornelison works closely with clients to ensure every agreement complies with Illinois law and that nothing is overlooked. Her attention to detail and understanding of the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act help clients avoid future disputes and maintain stability long after the divorce is complete.
Why Work With Kari Cornelison
Kari Cornelison has dedicated her career to family law and is known for her straightforward, compassionate approach. She understands that most people going through divorce want to resolve matters quickly, fairly, and without unnecessary hostility. With two decades of experience in DuPage County and Cook County courts, she brings both local insight and practical problem-solving skills to every case.
Her commitment to settlement-based family law sets her apart from many traditional divorce attorneys. She believes that divorce can be handled with integrity and that clients should have an opportunity to protect their families while securing their future. Through her guidance, clients are able to maintain control of the process and reduce the stress often associated with divorce litigation.
Serving Clients Across DuPage and Cook County
From her office in Oak Brook, Kari Cornelison serves clients throughout DuPage County and Cook County, including Oak Brook, Elmhurst, Lombard, Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Downers Grove, Naperville, and Wheaton. Her firm is dedicated exclusively to family law, allowing her to provide focused, experienced representation in every matter she handles.
Contact Kulerski & Cornelison
If you are considering a collaborative divorce in DuPage or Cook County, you deserve an attorney who understands how to balance efficiency, fairness, and compassion. Kari Cornelison will help you determine whether this process is right for your situation and guide you every step of the way.
Contact Kulerski & Cornelison today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how collaborative divorce can help you reach a fair and peaceful resolution.