Family Law Solicitors Merseyside

Unfortunately divorce has a reputation for leading to heartbreak and families separating. On the other hand, collaborative family legislation is a fairly new means of carrying out divorce proceedings and is making great headway in improving the outcome of divorce. Developed by a group of like-minded family law solicitors, collaborative divorce has been formulated around the theory that it is best for couples to discuss their differences in a noncommittal and worthwhile manner if they are to come to an amicable solution. Whilst it is important to remember that divorce is by definition very distressing, the worry and upset can be significantly decreased whilst avoiding the need for emotionally charged court proceedings.

What is a collaborative divorce? A collaborative divorce is centered on the assumption that it is advantageous for partners through to debate their differences, aided by their family law solicitor, during a 'four-way meeting', rather than in the intimidating surroundings of a traditional court room. It's important to be aware that collaborative divorce shouldn't be mixed up with mediation - mediation isn't a legal process and lawyers aren't present. The collaborative process starts with the couple going through the process appointing their own specially trained collaborative lawyer who will meet with them to explain the process and organise the first four-way discussion. At this introductory meeting, both the sides involved will be expected to sign a Procedure Agreement, confirming that each of them will take part in discussions in a neutral and productive way and agreeing that they will not take proceedings to the courtroom. An important bonus of the collaborative method is that it does not have a set time limit.

There are many rewards to collaborative divorce and the system works well for most partners because it is focused on the principle that it is not why couples divorce but how they divorce that leads to a breakdown in relationships. Because collaborative divorce discussions are carried out face-to-face rather than through phone calls and letters, matters are honest and transparent with both parties promising to be open. In addition, both parties work together to compile a list of issues which need to be sorted out and these are worked on to come to a mutually constructive solution. This is of great benefit particularly in cases where children are involved. Collaborative divorces are likely to be more successful in the long run as each agreement has been reached mutually, meaning that both parties are more likely to conform to them.

With the support of collaborative law, divorce doesn't have to be the heartbreaking and contentious process that it used to be. Collaborative divorce can give a great option to partners who are divorcing but want to prevent uncalled-for conflict and to iron out their conflicts in a relaxed and worthwhile way. Collaborative law may not be for everybody however it is progressively becoming a valuable method of preserving the interests of kids at the heart of proceedings and keeping legal costs to the bare minimum. So if you think that collaborative divorce is suitable for you, why not get in touch with a family law lawyer in Merseyside for tailor-made advice on your circumstances?