About half of all marriages in the United States end in divorce, and most of these divorces result in unnecessary collateral damage. Now there is a better way. In Collaborative Divorce, Pauline Tesler and Peggy Thompson, two pioneers in the field who train collaborative professionals around the world, present the first complete, step-by-step explanation of the groundbreaking method that is revolutionizing the way couples end their marriages. Working with a team of caring specialists that includes two lawyers, two coaches, a financial consultant, and a child specialist (if necessary), you and your spouse focus on building a consensus that addresses the needs of everyone who will be directly affected by the divorce. This exciting new paradigm empowers you--not lawyers or a judge--to shape the outcome of your divorce, as you: Stay out of court and save time Create long-term financial and parenting plans that work Play an active role in designing your life after the divorce Understand and address your children's needs Conserve emotional and financial resources Collaborative Divorce is essential reading that will inspire you to approach divorce as a vehicle for conflict resolution, healing, and positive, long-term change.