Collaborative Law – Q&A

2020 has been a difficult year. With the additional strains and stresses that Christmas will bring, we divorce lawyers anticipate that the New Year will be a busy time.

However, the good news is that there is a way to reach agreement during a divorce without having to resort to expensive court disputes, as I will explain in this blog.

Why Is the Start of the Year so Busy for Divorce Lawyers?

The New Year is often a time for new resolutions and new starts. After putting up with difficult situations or perhaps finding that a stressful Christmas is the straw that breaks the camel’s back, people may decide that it is a good time to make changes for the better to their lives, including contacting family lawyers.

What Is Collaborative Law?

It is a method of resolving issues arising from relationship breakdown focusing on finding solutions in a collaborative rather than court-based process. The aim is for a couple to focus on their most important goals, such as ongoing care and co-parenting of their children.

A series of face-to-face meetings promotes dialogue and provides a tailor-made solution for all aspects of their separation. It does not have to be solely for divorcing couples, it can be used in cohabitation breakdowns and also where couples are looking at starting a relationship together.

What Are the Advantages?

The parties commit not to go to court and are therefore in charge of the process and in control of the outcome. They make the final decision.

Unlike mediation the parties are supported in the face-to-face meetings by their lawyers, who can provide direct and immediate legal advice on any technical queries. As issues are discussed in the room there is complete transparency, which builds trust and enables the parties to see how their process is evolving.

If technical issues or disputes are encountered, experts known as “neutrals” can be brought in to assist the parties. This includes financial advisors, such as actuaries and business accountants, as well as family therapists if issues over children crop up.

The costs tend to be about half that of going to court to resolve financial issues or children matters because the meetings are tailor-made for the parties, who agree the agenda on each occasion. In addition to this, the couple is offered privacy, which provides a sense of achievement knowing that they have worked together to resolve matters.

How Long Have You Been a Family Lawyer?

24 years. I qualified in 1996 and have specialised exclusively in family work since then. I have seen many changes, including the introduction of pension sharing orders in the year 2000 and The Civil Partnership Act in 2004. I trained as a Collaborative Lawyer in 2010 and I am an active member of the “Shropshire Collaborative Lawyers” Group. Visit here for more details. Contact us for more information.