Collaborative law is an out of court option for resolving issues relating to divorce or separation. The collaborative approach is an amicable process in which you and your former partner work through issues to find reasonable solutions to various issues with the support of your solicitors and if necessary, other professionals such as accountants, tax specialists.

Our specially trained collaborative law solicitors are here to help support and advise you throughout the entire process.

It is a relatively simple process:

  • You and your former partner commit to resolve your case collaboratively and take the approach of instructing separate collaboratively law solicitors to represent you.
  • Settlement is reached in a series of face to face meetings consisting of you, your former partner and your representative.
  • You remain in control but with collaborative law solicitors present to provide guidance and advice.
  • If a settlement can’t be reached, you will both need to instruct a new family solicitor for court proceedings.

Why choose Trethowans?

Our team of highly trained collaborative law solicitors are here to help support and advise you throughout your separation. To learn more or to book your free initial consultation, contact us or call us on 0800 2800 421.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • There are many benefits to choosing a collaborative approach to separation, including:

     

    • Avoiding the financial and emotional turmoil of court proceedings.
    • You and your partner retain control over your own outcomes.
    • All matters are discussed around a table – no letters going back and forth between parties.
    • Independent third-party specialists can attend.
    • If you have children, it helps to begin your post-separation relationship on good terms.
    • Professional collaborative lawyers help you to communicate effectively.
  • Yes. When you choose collaborative law, you and your partner will each have legal representation but you can also involve independent third-party specialists, such as financial advisors and therapists, to help guide and advise. It is a bespoke service which, unlike Court proceedings, can be tailored to suit your specific needs.

  • Mediation involves settling issues surrounding separation with the help of a single, independent and impartial third party known as a mediator. A mediator will always be specially trained in dispute resolution but they are not always lawyers and cannot provide legal advice to you as their role is neutral. When you choose collaborative law you and your partner will have your own solicitor to look after your interests throughout the discussions.

  • As collaborative law is about finding solutions to issues in a positive and peaceful way, it is the preferred way for many to resolve child-related issues. It helps set the foundation for a calm and constructive post-separation parenting relationship.

  • Separation is a complex and often highly stressful and emotional process, which is why sometimes satisfactory outcomes for both parties cannot be agreed upon when using a collaborative approach. If this happens, proceedings will need to go to court. The lawyers who represented you throughout the collaboration are unable to act for you any further. It is this commitment by all parties which is what makes collaborative law so effective.

  • We are a team of highly trained collaborative law solicitors who are here to help support and advise you throughout your separation. To learn more or to book your free 30-minute consultation, contact us today by calling 0800 2800 421 or by completing and our online form.

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