Everyone wants to believe that their marriage will last forever. Having a marriage end in divorce is not ideal. It can be a very stressful, emotional and expensive time for everyone involved. There is now a new option that can take some of the unpleasantness out of getting divorced. This option is the "divorce hotel," which focuses on putting a positive spin on a very difficult time.
Origins of the Divorce Hotel
The divorce hotel is a new concept in the United States. It began in the Netherlands several years ago, and has expanded in Europe. There are now multiple hotels in Europe that boast of a quick weekend divorce. Hundreds of couples have utilized these unique facilities in Europe. Since it is still so new in the United States, it has not served as many people yet. There currently is just one divorce hotel, located in Sarasota Springs, New York.
How Divorce Hotel Works
At a divorce hotel, the couple enters as a married couple and leaves as divorced individuals. The goal is to get the whole process done in one weekend, so the couple will check in Friday evening and hopefully be finished and ready to leave by Sunday. The package includes a divorce attorney for each person, along with a mediator to assist in paperwork.
Prior to the weekend getaway, the couple communicates with the mediator via phone and email. The large, complicated issues are discussed and worked out this way. Some issues that are often taken care of beforehand are division of property and the division of retirement accounts.
Once at the hotel, the couple gets separate accommodations and are greeted with goodies like chocolates and wines. Between meetings with the divorce attorneys and the mediator, the couple can indulge in massages and other spa features. The entire weekend is spent relaxing while finalizing the divorce. By the time the weekend is over the couple has a legally binding agreement. The actual divorce is typically finalized by the end of the next week.
Good Candidates for the Divorce Hotel
Not all couples are good candidates to obtain a divorce at the divorce hotel. The best couples to consider this option are couples who are cordial and can get along with each other. While every couple's situation is different, those who have less complex issues are most likely to be successful using a divorce hotel. People with complicated financial situations and couples with minor children might struggle with this procedure.
You can always contact a divorce attorney to see if any other option is better suited for your situation.
