Divorce Solicitors Leeds

Unhappily divorce is notorious for wrecking family relationships, wasting financial assets and commonly resulting in unhappiness and worry. A fairly recent form of divorce law, collaborative family law, is making great strides in cutting down the number of stormy and hostile divorce struggles. Unfortunately divorce is usually the end resort to couples who sometimes have been battling for a long time and have been unable to conquer their conflicts. Nonetheless, divorce solicitors Leeds wide have found that if couples take the chance to think about a more good-natured tactic, collaborative divorce can provide the answer. Collaborative divorce has been developed to give divorcing couples a chance to assess the situation in a reasonably relaxed atmosphere, providing them with the opportunity to maintain their self-possession and self-respect.

The collaborative method focuses around 'four-way' discussions or meetings and on both parties promising to avoid the courtroom - this is the main point of the whole process and it is requested that couples sign an agreement to this affect. The method starts with each partner appointing their own specialist collaborative lawyer, an inaugural four way get-together will then be held during which both parties must sign a Participation Agreement. Collaborative family law centres on the mutual understanding that all discussions must be conducted in a helpful way, with each party respecting the opinions of the other. It's crucial that couples who make a deal to undertake a collaborative divorce recognise that grievances might need to be voiced in order to arrive at a mutual agreement. An additional benefit of the four way discussions is the consequent transparency of matters and the reduction in arguments.

If considering a collaborative divorce, it's essential to understand that the procedure is not the same as mediation or counselling. Solicitors are present and are consulted throughout, driving the process to a conclusion. Mediation should usually be the first stage, but if it fails then a collaborative divorce can be a very good method of avoiding unnecessary confrontation which is very important if children are involved. Divorce solicitors who are experts in the collaborative process have come to the conclusion that it is frequently easier for couples to come to an understanding if their divorce proceedings are frank and conducted with openness. The collaborative method achieves this within the four way meetings; even though each party has the opportunity to meet their solicitor in private, the discussion itself has to be a tool for frank and constructive talks.

The many advantages of collaborative family law over long-established court-based divorces are becoming extensively recognised. This original method usually means that confrontational and belligerent meetings are avoided, children are the priority, legal fees don't include costly court fees and the divorcing couple have far more control over proceedings. Finally and probably most importantly, a collaborative divorce usually leaves couples with their relationships with family, friends and children undamaged. If you are interested in finding out more about collaborative family law, why not contact one of the divorce solicitors Leeds wide.