Going to court is not the only way to resolve family law issues. Collaborative law is a process that allows separating couples to work together to reach agreements about finances and arrangements for children, with the support of their own lawyers throughout. If you're seeking a collaborative divorce or separation, we can take you through the process.
Award-winning family law services
Recommended by 90% of clients
Expert dispute resolution advice
Seven key office locations across England
What is collaborative law?
Collaborative law is a way of resolving issues arising from separation or divorce without asking a court to make decisions for you. It provides a structured and supportive process in which you and your ex can work towards agreements about finances and arrangements for your children.
A key feature of the process is a series of "four-way" meetings involving both of you and your collaboratively trained lawyers. These meetings (which can be in-person or virtual) allow everyone to discuss issues face-to-face, explore options and work through any disagreements constructively, rather than relying on a traditional exchange of letters and emails between solicitors.
The aim is to help you reach practical solutions that meet the needs of your family, while benefiting from legal advice and support at every stage. Rather than pitting you and your ex against each other, collaborative law is designed to facilitate open discussion so that you focus on problem-solving.
How does collaborative divorce work?
1. Attend an initial meeting: You meet with your collaboratively trained lawyer to discuss your circumstances, understand the process and decide whether collaborative law is right for you.
2. Sign the participation agreement: At the first four-way meeting, everyone signs a participation agreement committing to resolve issues and reach an agreement through the collaborative process and without going to court.
The agreement also provides that, if the process breaks down and court proceedings become necessary, the collaborative lawyers cannot continue to act. This encourages all participants to remain committed to resolving matters within the process.
3. Set the agenda: This is very much a process led by you and your ex-partner. During the first meeting, you decide what matters most, whether it’s the family home, pension sharing or child arrangements. You then set the pace and timetables for the meetings that follow.
4. Book the meetings: Over the course of the four-way meetings, you'll work through the agenda collaboratively.
5. Finalise the agreement: Once a solution is reached, your lawyers will advise on the best way to record it formally. Depending on the circumstances, this may include a consent order to be approved by the court, a separation agreement or another appropriate legal document.
