I think there is some ambiguity. The lawyer you hire for collaborative pledges not to go to court (you have to get a new lawyer and I think you have to switch firms). But if you just move to mediation, it may be possible. But if you look it up you can probably find out for sure.

Is it true that if collaborative divorce breaks down, you must start over with a new lawyer?

You can't go to a mediator alone.

I did mediation. Much better than having the lawyers go back and forth.

Collaborative divorce can be more expensive than mediation.

OP, what needs to be mediated? If it's highly contentious, you might need the lawyers to get involved, but through the mediator.

Is the other party on board with mediation?

I'd wholeheartedly recommend "collaborative divorce" if you can do it.

Here's some information: http://collaborativedivorcemd.com/

Can anyone recommend a good divorce mediator in Montgomery County? Especially somewhere near Rockville.

How much does an initial consultation cost? Should we both go or just me?

What was the process like, if you've been through it?