Family Law Solicitors Leeds

Sadly divorce has a reputation for ending up in heartbreak and families splitting up. On the other hand, collaborative family law is a fairly original means of undertaking divorce proceedings and is making great progress in improving the outcome of divorce. Developed by a team of similar thinking family law solicitors, collaborative divorce has been formulated around the theory that it is best for partners to debate their differences in a noncommittal and productive manner if they are to bring about an amicable solution. Whilst it is essential to keep in mind that divorce is by definition incredibly distressing, the worry and upset can be considerably curtailed whilst avoiding the need for emotionally charged court proceedings.

So what precisely does collaborative divorce mean? Collaborative divorce works on the formula that it is best for couples to meet, with their lawyer present, in a non-confrontational 'four-way meeting', rather than conduct their divorce proceedings in the court room. Collaborative divorce mustn't be confused with mediation though as unlike mediation lawyers are there and the finished result is divorce. The process of a collaborative divorce is begun with each person appointing their own specially trained collaborative lawyer who will talk through the system and plan an initial four-way meeting with the other partner. At the initial four-way meeting, both sides will sign a Procedure Agreements in which each of them will make a deal not to go to court and to conduct future meetings in a constructive and non-confrontational way. A plan for future discussions is also written up in discussion with both sides. There is no time limit for a collaborative divorce, unlike divorces which are conducted in the intimidating environment of a courtroom.

There are numerous rewards to collaborative divorce and the system works well for most partners because it is focused on the principle that it is not why couples divorce but how they divorce that leads to a breakdown in relationships. Because collaborative divorce meetings are carried out face-to-face rather than through phone calls and letters, proceedings are open and up-front with both parties agreeing to be open. In addition, both parties cooperate to draw up a list of issues which need to be resolved and these are worked on to come to a mutually valuable answer. This is of great benefit particularly in cases where children are included. Collaborative divorces are inclined to be more successful in the long run as each understanding has been reached in collaboration, meaning that both parties are more likely to conform 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 offer an excellent solution to partners who are divorcing but wish to prevent uncalled-for strife and to iron out their differences in a nonbelligerent and worthwhile way. Collaborative law might not be for everyone however it is progressively becoming a valuable way of preserving the interests of kids at the heart of matters and keeping legal costs to the lowest possible. So if you think that collaborative divorce is suitable for you, why not get in touch with a family law lawyer in Leeds for tailor-made advice on your situation?