Destination: Divorce

Someone is always coming up with a new twist on a familiar product or service. We recently read an article about a company providing what it refers to as destination divorces. The couple jets in for a three-day stay at a hotel and spa, where family law attorneys work out the details of their divorce.

Afterwards, (in theory, at least) everyone is relaxed and everything is settled. Of course, many experienced attorneys will tell you that any number of issues such as child custody or property division (or both) can create complications that last far beyond an extended weekend, no matter how nice the pedicure is at the spa.

The Dutch company arranging the destination divorces will put you up at one of six hotels in the Netherlands or one in Saratoga Springs, New York. No doubt those are fine and desirable places, but possibly not on everyone’s list of “destination.”

Regardless, that’s where you go with your soon-to-be-ex, — but without your children. The article on the destination divorces wasn’t entirely clear why kids are excluded, but it did say prices range up to $12,000 — including a one-hour consultation with an attorney from Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Needless to say, this “destination” package has a number of drawbacks, especially for people who will require more than 60 minutes with an attorney who understands the legal process of divorce, complexities of child custody law, and who is willing to put in the time and effort needed to ensure that your divorce settlement is favorable and tailored to fit your circumstances.