We have two collaboratively accredited solicitors in our Family team. They have undertaken specialist training to offer this service, to facilitate constructive, supported conversations to resolve matters in a non-confrontational way. Collaborative practice is an alternative to court litigation and/or adversarial correspondence, with everyone committed to work towards a fair agreement whether about finances and/or arrangements for your children.

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Collaborative practice is a way to resolve family issues without going to court. It encourages productive discussion in a supported environment, with the aim of reaching a long-term solution that is in the best interests of the whole family.

You can raise concerns, explore options, and reduce misunderstandings with your own legal adviser alongside you. You will also hear the legal advice given to the other person first-hand, which can help everyone understand the full picture.

In some cases, collaborative law can involve independent professionals (sometimes called “neutrals”), such as:

  • accountants
  • financial advisers
  • pension experts
  • family consultants or therapists

They can assist with detailed financial input bespoke for your family finances or support you with the emotional impact of separation during the discussions and after.

The process is dignified and respectful, and it is often very cost-effective. Communications take place in the room, rather than through lengthy and expensive legal correspondence.

The pace and format are agreed to suit everyone, and meeting agendas are set in advance so that all can be prepared, avoiding any surprises. Breaks can be taken at any point so you can receive your own advice outside of the room if needed.

All negotiations are private and confidential and conducted on a without prejudice basis. If discussions do not lead to an agreement, you can move to the court process with a new set of advisers.

Collaborative practice can also be suitable for marital (pre- and post-nuptial agreements) and cohabitation agreements, where discussions can assist in the financial planning of your relationship.

Our family law team.

Why choose our Family Law team?

Seeking expert legal advice is crucial at this time. Many aspects of family law are complex and emotionally challenging. Our advisers, Justine Lowe and Ian Stirzaker, are members of Resolution, a professional body for family law practitioners. They're committed to following a non-confrontational approach, reducing emotional turmoil and making the transition and separation easier.

We use our experience with Resolution, as Mediators and from other areas of the law to assist you through the process. We will ensure that you are properly advised to enable you to make the right decisions and reach an outcome you can rebuild from.

We aim to provide you with prompt, expert advice throughout your case. During our initial meeting, we'll discuss our funding approach and our service quality guarantee. Our goal is to achieve a fair outcome while minimising conflict and emotional distress. We also offer support through mediation or alternative dispute resolution methods, which are often less adversarial than court proceedings.

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Not sure on your next steps?

We know that this can be challenging, but we are here to support you. Use our diagnostics tools to identify whether you're prepared for the divorce or separation process. We also offer a one hour no-obligation initial meeting at £150.00 + VAT.

Assess whether you're ready for divorce
Getting the best value from your lawyer

Our advisers are members of Resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Collaborative practice is designed to help you resolve issues outside of court, with everyone committed to working towards a fair agreement.

Get in touch today Complete diagnostic

Yes. Each person has their own collaboratively trained solicitor, and everyone commits to the collaborative process.

Get in touch today Complete diagnostic

If you can’t reach agreement, you can move to court with a new set of advisers.

Get in touch today Complete diagnostic

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