What is Collaborative Law?

Collaborative family law is a non-confrontational approach to resolving issues arising out of a relationship breakdown. These are commonly about family finances and the on-going care of the children but can include any topic that is important to the couple.

The collaborative law process is based on open and honest discussions during which each client is supported by their own collaborative lawyer (family lawyers who undertake additional training and are experienced in Collaborative Practice). The clients and lawyers work together in a series of four-way meetings, to find a fair solution.

Collaborative law is available for divorce and civil partnership dissolution.

What Are The Advantages of Collaborative Family Law?

Some of the advantages of collaborative law approach are:

• You and your spouse/civil partner maintain control of the process yourself, without having to go to court.
• The needs of your children are given priority.
• You and your spouse/civil partner make a commitment to reaching agreement through discussion with each other and with the support throughout from your lawyers.
• You may express your wishes and feelings in a safe environment so you feel “heard”.
• Both parties commit to full disclosure of all financial and other information.
• The process may save you a significant amount in fees especially compared to a court case which goes to final hearing, the costs of which can in some cases run into tens of thousands of pounds.
• The collaborative process saves time. On average, agreement can be reached in four meetings, sometimes less. Remember however that the divorce process itself and the finalising of any agreed Order at the court may take between six and eight months.