Family Law Solicitors Salford
Unfortunately divorce is usually traumatic for those going through the process and if you are in this situation you're most likely well aware of the sadness and upset it can cause. However, a new approach to divorce has been developed by like-minded family law solicitors. Collaborative divorce is a non-confrontational, face-to-face system which is appropriate for divorcing partners who are eager to try and retain good relationships. Divorce is a very emotional problem and no one approach is suitable for everybody, but collaborative divorce is forging ahead in decreasing adverse results to traditional divorce proceedings.
So what precisely does collaborative divorce mean? Collaborative divorce works on the principle that it is better for couples to meet, with their solicitor present, in a non-confrontational 'four-way meeting', rather than conduct their divorce proceedings in the court room. Collaborative divorce mustn't be confused with mediation though as unlike mediation solicitors are there and the end result is divorce. The method of a collaborative divorce is started with each person choosing their own specialist collaborative lawyer who will talk through the system and plan an initial four-way meeting with the other partner. At the first four-way meeting, both parties will sign a Procedure Agreements in which they will make a deal not to go to court and to hold future meetings in a helpful and non-confrontational way. An agenda for future discussions is also written up in discussion with both sides. There is no time limit for a collaborative divorce, unlike divorces which are conducted in the intimidating surroundings of a courtroom.
There are various benefits to collaborative divorce and the system works well for most couples because it is focused on the principle that it is not why partners divorce but how they divorce that leads to a breakdown in relationships. Because collaborative divorce meetings are conducted face-to-face rather than through telephone calls and letters, matters are honest and up-front with both sides promising to be open. In addition, both sides cooperate to draw up a list of things which need to be resolved and these are worked on to come to a mutually valuable answer. This is of great benefit especially in cases where kids are involved. Collaborative divorces are likely to be more successful in the long run as each understanding has been reached mutually, meaning that both parties are more likely to stand by to them.
So divorce doesn't automatically have to be the upsetting and traumatic process that it used to be. For couples who are seeking a more amicable resolution to their differences, collaborative divorce offers a solution. It can also be an excellent option for couples who are divorcing and need legal representation but would like to avoid going to the courtroom. Collaborative family law solicitors are specialists in this area of legal practice and can help partners amicably resolve their grievances through collaboration rather than conflict. So if you are currently involved in a divorce, why not contact one of the specialist family law lawyers in the Salford area for help and advice?