The Good Divorce Week

What is it, and why does it matter?

Good Divorce Week is run by Resolution as an annual campaign. Resolution members comprise family lawyers and other professionals who promote a non-confrontational approach to resolving issues arising throughout the divorce process. Members must adhere to a Code of Conduct which focuses on limiting conflict upon divorce, both in relation to financial resolution and disputes involving the children of the marriage. The focus is on encouraging divorcing couples to face their issues in less of a confrontational way, and to attempt to keep the heat out of, what is an already, sensitive situation. ?This years’ Good Divorce Week runs from 29th November to 3rd December.

The Family Department here at Giles Wilson are proudly committed members of Resolution, aiming to limit the impact of relationship breakdown, both between the divorcing couple and, most importantly, any children.

What is a Good Divorce?

The expression “good divorce” seems at odds with the subject matter as, to this day, divorce continues to carry a somewhat negative stigma. It is not about ignoring the fact that separation can be incredibly painful for families, and not about encouraging divorce, rather, it is about acknowledging that there are diverse ways to manage the process and assisting the parties in their plans for a positive future.?It aims to eliminate the common conception of a “battle” between the couple. The Resolution Code of Practice aims to:

·??????Reduce or manage any conflict and confrontation, an example of which is to not use inflammatory language.

·??????Support and encourage families to treat the children as utmost priority.

·??????Act with honesty, integrity, and objectivity.

·??????Help Clients understand and manage the potential long-term financial and emotional consequences of their decisions.

·??????Listen to and treat everyone with respect and without judgment.

·??????Use their experience and knowledge to guid Clients through the options available to them; and

·??????Continually develop knowledge and skills.

This year’s Good Divorce Week is taking place between 28th November and 3rd December and is focusing on the ongoing delays within the Family Court arena and the impact those delays are having on divorcing couples. We will be engaging with MP’s, policy makers and members of the public to raise awareness of the ongoing crisis within the Family Courts. The Family Solicitors within Giles Wilson will be engaging in this activity, after which, we shall post another blog with our findings.