Good Divorce Week

I’m not sure that a divorce is ever good, after all, the overwhelming majority of couples who marry, do so with the intention that they will be ‘together forever’. However, the way in which a divorce is handled, the negotiations and communication between the parties and the support they receive from those around them, can absolutely make the experience easier, cheaper and happier, if it is handled in the right way.

Resolution is a community of family law professionals who work with families and individuals to resolve issues in a constructive way. All members follow a Code of Practice which promotes a constructive approach to family issues and looks at the needs of everyone involved. Many family solicitors, and other professionals, are members of Resolution. I believe that whether you are a member of Resolution or not, the approach which Resolution promotes, is absolutely essential within family law.

Contrary to popular opinion, divorce, or any form of separation, does not need to be acrimonious and hostile. Solicitors should not be intimidating, regardless of whether they are communicating with their client, another professional or another party acting in person. There is a difference between taking a firm approach and one which is confrontational and likely to increase tensions between the parties. It is possible to be a robust solicitor who fights for their client without acting in a confrontational manner. A good solicitor should focus on constructive dialogue and reducing conflict. They should look holistically at a case to find a long-term solution for the whole family. The Code of Practice which Resolution members follow and apply is designed to reduce conflict, support families and guide clients whilst being respectful to all involved. It isn’t always easy to achieve that balance, especially when faced with an aggressive opponent, but it does always result in a more positive outcome in the long term.

Jane Trenaman is a Senior Associate at Everys. She is a member of Resolution and has Resolution Specialist Accreditation in Complex Financial Remedy and Private Law Children. To contact Jane, email [email protected] or call 01884 211113.