Family disputes and the end of relationships can be emotionally difficult and expensive if they result in litigation. That's why we are here to offer you the option of collaborative family law solutions.
Birkett Long’s team of family lawyers understand the breakdown of a relationship is stressful and emotional, particularly when it leads to divorce. If you are looking for an alternative way of handling the divorce process.
Why choose Birkett Long LLP
Birkett Long has the largest collaboratively trained team of lawyers in Essex.
We have 4 Collaborative lawyers at Birkett Long. If you, like us, are committed to dealing with separation amicably and are keen to preserve a good relationship with your ex-partner (despite the end of your romantic relationship), then we are well placed to help you achieve that end.
We all commit not to go to court and you decide the order that matters are discussed. The speed goes at the rate of the slowest person. It is a bespoke approach that allows out-the-box thinking to find the best solution for your unique family.
There are many options to consider, and we can help you work out which is best for you.
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If your marriage has broken down, but you are both looking to resolve things amicably, a collaborative approach could be for you. Contact us to find out how our specialist family lawyers can help you.
Collaborative family law FAQ
What is collaborative family law?
Couples now look for alternatives to the traditional divorce process, where a court makes a decision on their behalf. If a court makes a decision, then all control is lost over the future of the family finances. Quite often, the best solution for people is the solution that they work out together.
At its simplest, that is what the collaborative process is all about - reaching solutions together, amicably.
In the collaborative law process, both separating parties have a solicitor. Rather than conducting negotiations by letter, telephone or through the court, discussions take place face-to-face by way of four-way meetings.
Collaborative law requires a shared commitment to avoid litigation and the court process. It provides couples with an opportunity to work together with their collaborative lawyers to find solutions that enable them and their family to move forward in a positive way.
How does the collaborative law process work?
The collaborative law process is something that would be described as a hybrid between mediation and solicitor negotiation. It involves both you and your ex-partner instructing lawyers who are trained in the process. Like mediation, it involves a number of meetings, but your lawyer is with you the whole time and you all (lawyers included) commit to reaching an agreement outside of court.
What are the benefits of a collaborative law process?
The benefits of a collaborative law process are:
- You can focus on what is important to you and resolve matters quickly.
- If you have children, they can benefit from the process as it will focus on the children first. There can be improved communication which can assist in laying foundations for healthy relationships afterwards.
- A collaborative approach can send a powerful message to children that their parents will resolve differences constructively together.
- All discussions take place face-to-face, leading to less possibility of failure to understand.
