Collaborative Divorce
Collaborative Divorce Services
Compassionate. Respectful. Financially Smart.
At The Next Chapter Divorce, we believe that divorce doesn’t have to be a battle—it can be a new beginning. Our Collaborative Divorce services offer a peaceful, respectful alternative to traditional litigation, helping you move forward with dignity, control, and financial clarity.
​
What Is Collaborative Divorce?
Collaborative Divorce is a team-based approach to separation and divorce. Instead of going to court, both spouses work with a team of trained professionals—including attorneys, financial specialists, and sometimes therapists or child specialists—to reach a mutually agreeable outcome. This method is particularly effective for couples who want to prioritize cooperation, privacy, and the well-being of their children.
​
Meet Michelle Muhammed, CDFA®
Michelle Muhammed is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®) and Collaborative Divorce Professional in Maryland. With expertise in guiding clients through the financial complexities of divorce, Michelle delivers clarity and confidence to clients throughout the entire process.
​
Her role is to:
-
Help collect and organize your financial information
-
Explain your options for equitable and amicable division of assets and liabilities
-
Guide you both through budgeting for separate households
-
Simplify complex compensation and benefits packages
-
Provide options regarding spousal support
-
Explain retirement plan division options
Michelle provides calm, compassionate guidance to help you navigate divorce and build the foundation to thrive in your next chapter!
Collaborative Affiliations & Certifications
Why Choose Collaborative Divorce?
Don’t let your divorce define you—let it empower you!
I work with a lot of individuals and couples going through divorce. They come into the process hurt, scared, and unsure of what the future will hold. Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to get through the divorce process with respect, dignity, open communication, and guidance throughout?
Well, actually there is... It is called Collaborative Divorce!
​
Collaborative Practice is a voluntary process in which parties settle disputes without resorting to litigation.
In Collaborative Practice:
-
The parties sign a collaborative participation agreement describing the nature and scope of the matter;
-
The parties voluntarily disclose all information that is relevant and material to the matter that must be decided;
-
The parties agree to use good faith efforts in their negotiations to reach a mutually acceptable settlement;
-
Each party must be represented by a lawyer whose representation terminates upon the undertaking of any contested court proceeding;
-
The parties may engage financial professionals and professionals who support the emotional, communication, and parenting components of the divorce, whose engagement terminates upon the undertaking of any contested court proceeding;
-
The parties may jointly engage other experts as needed. In Collaborative Practice, each person, including professionals, commits to:
-
Negotiate a mutually acceptable resolution without having courts decide issues.
-
Maintain open communication and information sharing.
-
Create shared solutions acknowledging the highest priorities of all.
-
