When facing divorce or separation, most couples wish to avoid high legal fees and years of hostile court battles. This is especially true for parents, who must communicate effectively during and after the separation to enable future co-parenting and shield children from disputes.
In regular divorce proceedings, each spouse typically hires their own lawyer. However, while individual lawyers or non-court options may sometimes be necessary, a growing number of couples want joint early legal advice to receive the same counsel from one lawyer. This collaborative approach can often lead to swift, amicable resolutions with the children's best interests in mind. For these couples, Resolution Together offers a promising way forward.
The family law solicitors at Sousa Law have decades of experience guiding couples through divorce and separation. In the guide below, we'll cover everything you need to know about Resolution Together - what it is, what its benefits are, and how to determine if it's the right path for you.
Resolution Together, also known as "One Couple, One Lawyer", is an approach to divorce mediation where both spouses work with the same lawyer to negotiate the terms of their divorce settlement. Both individuals must consent to sharing all relevant factual and financial information necessary for making decisions together. This information is disclosed to each other and to the lawyer, who offers guidance and advice to help them reach a final resolution.
Traditionally, most couples considering divorce or separation seek separate advice from opposing lawyers who will each be fighting their client’s corner for the best settlement. This will position the couple against each other from the outset and result in costly legal fees and often aggressive court proceedings. The actual outcome is often somewhere in the middle of both ‘positions’ set out by the opposing lawyers.
Resolution Together, on the other hand, is intended to better promote cooperation and reduce conflict during the divorce process. The couple and their lawyer collaborate to find mutually acceptable solutions regarding child custody, asset division, and spousal support. The lawyer acts as a neutral mediator, helping the couple navigate the legal process and reach compromises that are fair and equitable to both parties.
There are a number of benefits to going down the Resolution Together route, including:
One of the primary advantages is cost savings. By sharing a single lawyer, couples can significantly reduce their legal expenses compared to hiring two separate attorneys.
With only one lawyer involved, communication between the couple and the legal representative tends to be more streamlined. There's less chance of miscommunication or conflicting advice, which can sometimes occur when each party has their own attorney advocating for their individual interests.
The Resolution Approach approach encourages couples to work together in resolving their differences. It encourages cooperation and collaboration, which can lead to more mutually beneficial agreements.
With fewer parties involved, the negotiation and decision-making process can be expedited. Couples may find it easier to reach agreements on various issues, such as property division, child custody, and support arrangements, without the need for lengthy legal battles.
By keeping the divorce proceedings between the couple and their shared attorney, privacy is better preserved. There's less exposure of personal and sensitive information than in a public courtroom setting.
Having a single lawyer can help minimise conflicts between the parties. The attorney can act as a neutral mediator, helping the couple navigate through disagreements and find common ground without escalating tensions.
Resolution Together is best suited for couples whose joint aim is to reach an outcome together which meets their needs, and if they are parents, the needs of their children. It’s unlikely to be appropriate in cases involving past or present abuse within the relationship, safeguarding or capacity concerns, or significant power imbalances that cannot be effectively managed. It would also be inappropriate if one side of the couple isn’t prepared to negotiate with the other, or if there are suspicions that either party may seek to ‘hide’ information, especially about finances.
We know that the most important decision our clients will have to make from the outset is how to progress with their separation or divorce, particularly as there are so many options to choose from. The decision can be difficult, but your lawyer will carefully guide you, so you can decide on the next steps to take.
Should you choose to proceed cooperatively through Resolution Together, we will supply all the support you and your former partner need to reach mutual agreements in your family's best interests, with special priority given to any children involved. Our lawyer will facilitate productive joint sessions focused on achieving shared objectives, while also making separate legal advice available if requested.
We aim to tailor the process around your family's unique situation. By working together from the outset, we can provide clear expectations around costs and timelines. We’ll also coordinate with other financial and family professionals to ensure all your needs are met and questions answered. This collaborative approach strives to reach comprehensive, amicable outcomes as efficiently as possible.
To speak with one of our specialist family solicitors, book an initial consultation online, call us on 02380 713 060, or email [email protected]. We’re glad to assist with any questions you have.
16 College Place, Southampton, SO15 2FE
Tel: 02380 713 060 Email: [email protected]
