Why Collaborative Law?

Statistics released in early December 2016 showed that the number of divorces in England and Wales fell in 2014 by 3.1% compared to the previous year – and yet the figures show that over 100,000 couples divorced in 2014. That’s over 100,000 couples going through the heartache of relationship breakdown and family separation and all the worry, both practical and emotional, that this brings.

While there will always be some cases that end up in an acrimonious court battle, the tide is very much turning in favour of a more conciliatory and respectful approach to divorce; an approach that looks beyond the messy circumstances that have led to the breakdown of the relationship. This approach is one that many family lawyers, myself included, very much welcome – particularly where children are involved.

Dispute resolution has become increasingly popular as an alternative to lengthy and costly court proceedings. Within this field, collaborative law offers many advantages to couples who have found themselves at the point where their marriage is no longer viable, but are looking for a constructive approach to working through the issues that divorce presents.

The ’round the table’ approach of collaborative law, involving the couple and their solicitors discussing every aspect of the divorce settlement frequently results in the creation of a more practical settlement that works for the parties. It avoids the costs and stress of court hearings, and has long term benefits. Couples that engage with the collaborative law process find they end up communicating far better – and when the care of children is involved, this is a distinct advantage.

Collaborative law won’t work in every situation – but where both spouses are keen to work together to reach the best solution for everyone involved in the family unit, it is a very real and beneficial option.

For a more detailed examination of the collaborative law process https://www.tmfamilylaw.co.uk/2017/01/marriage-breakdown-the-benefits-of-collaborative-law/, take a look at our website – or get in touch 020 3504 4988  info@thomasmansfield.com – or use our call back service https://www.tmfamilylaw.co.uk/contact-us/