Family Law Solicitors Sunderland

Regrettably divorce has a reputation for ending up in heartbreak and families separating. On the other hand, collaborative family law is a relatively new way of carrying out divorce proceedings and is making great progress 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 talk over their differences in a nonbelligerent and worthwhile manner if they are to bring about an amicable solution. Whilst it is important to keep in mind that divorce is by its very nature very painful, the tension and upset can be significantly curtailed whilst avoiding the need for emotionally charged court proceedings.

So what exactly does collaborative divorce mean? Collaborative divorce works on the formula that it is best for couples to communicate, 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 mixed up with mediation though as unlike mediation solicitors are present and the end result is divorce. The method of a collaborative divorce is started with each person finding their own specially trained collaborative solicitor who will talk through the system and arrange an initial four-way meeting with the other partner. At the first four-way meeting, both sides will sign a Procedure Agreements in which they will agree not to go to court and to conduct future discussions in a constructive and non-confrontational manner. A plan for future meetings is also drawn up in discussion with both parties. There is no time restriction for a collaborative divorce, unlike divorces which are carried out in the threatening surroundings of a courtroom.

There are numerous 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 phone calls and letters, proceedings are open and straightforward with both parties promising to be honest. In addition, both sides cooperate to draw up a list of things which need to be sorted out and these are worked on to come to a mutually constructive solution. This is of great benefit especially in cases where kids are included. Collaborative divorces have a tendency to be more successful in the long run as each agreement has been reached in collaboration, meaning that both parties are more likely to adhere to them.

With the support of collaborative law, divorce doesn't have to be the heartbreaking and divisive procedure that it used to be. Collaborative divorce can give an excellent choice to couples who are separating but wish to avoid uncalled-for conflict and to iron out their differences in a relaxed and helpful way. Collaborative law might not be for everyone however it is more and more becoming a valuable way of protecting the interests of kids at the centre 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 solicitor in Sunderland for tailor-made guidance on your situation?