Collaborative Law

Collaborative Law is a relatively new approach to resolving the various problems that arise when a relationship breaks down.

Equally applicable to the breakdown of a marriage, civil partnership or cohabitation, it aims to put the two clients in charge of the process guided by their respective solicitors in a series of round table meetings known as ‘4 ways’.  The solicitors involved must have undergone extensive training by Resolution (previously known as the Solicitors Family Law Association) and be members of a collaborative law practice group called a ‘pod’. 

Whilst providing their particular client with legal advice and support throughout the process, Solicitors in Collaborative Law are trained to promote solutions, which are worked out by the parties themselves and which are mutually beneficial; any children’s interests always being the priority.  The two clients and their solicitors enter into a formal agreement that they will not use the court other than for formalising the divorce and the financial arrangements. In the unusual event of the collaborative process breaking down, the clients must go to new solicitors to take their case forward in the traditional manner. 

If you would like to know more about this approach, please ring Phyllidia on 01995 604114 or email her on pdp@bsglaw.co.uk

You might also like to visit the Resolution website www.resolution.org.uk and look at the section headed ‘Alternatives to Court’

Phyllidia Packer is a senior family lawyer.

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