Divorce Solicitors Stockport

Unfortunately divorce has a well-deserved renown for taking a vast toll on family relationships. However, a relatively brand-new sort of divorce law, called collaborative family law, is making excellent progress in reducing the conflict and stress that is traditionally involved. Divorce is usually the conclusion of a long-drawn-out, acrimonious struggle within couples who may often have spent years fighting and have failed to resolve their differences. If a couple can to take a step back and contemplate a more amicable concept, then collaborative divorce can be the appropriate answer. Collaborative divorce offers couples the scope to mull over the situation and finish up with their dignity and self-esteem unscathed.

The collaborative practice focuses around 'four-way' talks or meetings and on both sides promising to steer clear of the courtroom - this is the linchpin of the collaborative method and both sides sign an agreement to this affect. The method begins around each side selecting their own specially trained collaborative lawyer, an initial four way get-together will then be held during which both parties must sign a Participation Agreement. Collaborative family law focuses on the mutual understanding that all discussions must be conducted in a constructive way, with each party respecting the thoughts of the other. It's very important that couples who agree to undertake a collaborative divorce recognise that differences might need to be voiced in order to arrive at a common agreement. An additional bonus of the four way meetings is the consequent honesty of matters and the reduction in arguments.

If thinking about collaborative divorce, it's imperative that couples understand that it is different from mediation in that solicitors are on hand and the process takes matters towards a conclusion. However, if divorce seems to be the only choice, then the collaborative method can be an effective way of avoiding disputes which is particularly important where children are included. Collaborative divorce solicitors have recognised for a long time that it is usually much easier for couples to bring about a swift and friendly conclusion if the meetings are straightforward and sincere. This is achieved in the collaborative method through the four way discussions. Each party has the opportunity to meet with their divorce lawyer in private before the meeting but the four way meeting must be a forum for open and frank talks.

The benefits of collaborative family law are many. This special approach means that meetings are non-confrontational and non-aggressive, the requirements of children involved are kept at the forefront, legal fees are kept to a minimum plus the couple involved are able to control and manage their own time limit for proceedings. Finally, collaborative divorce usually concludes with couples successfully continuing connections with family, children and friends. So for additional advice on this progressive approach to divorce law, why not contact one of the divorce solicitors in the Stockport district?