Our trained collaborative lawyers can support you through your separation, divorce or dissolution using the collaborative process. This is where couples work together constructively to reach fair agreements in a respectful environment, without going to court.
What is collaborative law?
Each person has their own lawyer to guide and advise them throughout the process, but the lawyers take care not to become adversarial or score points against each other, to ensure that the agreement achieved is the best possible solution for the couple and their family.
Your collaborative lawyer will sign an agreement with you, your former partner/spouse and their lawyer, that prevents either lawyer from representing the couple in court if the collaborative process breaks down. This ensures that the solicitors are absolutely committed to resolving matters amicably and keeping the focus on solutions, not disputes. The court can only be used for the formalities of obtaining a divorce and a financial remedy consent order setting out agreed terms.
The benefits of collaborative law
Collaborative solicitors work with a couple in round table meetings to find solutions that work for the whole family, giving priority to issues that are important to you and your partner.
The collaborative process offers several advantages over traditional negotiations or court proceedings:
- Reduced conflict – discussions are open, honest, and solution-focused.
- Control and flexibility – you and your partner set the pace and agenda.
- Privacy – meetings are confidential, with no risk of court reporting.
- Creative outcomes – agreements can be more tailored to your family’s unique circumstances.
- Respect and dignity – the emphasis is on understanding and cooperation rather than confrontation.
This process is particularly effective for couples who wish to remain on good terms, for example where co-parenting will continue after separation.
Can the collaborative process be used to discuss all separation issues?
Yes. The collaborative process can be used for agreeing:
- Financial settlements
- Child arrangements, including effective co-parenting plans that help your children adapt successfully to living with their parents in separate households. The collaborative process helps parents maintain good communication with each other.
Who can use the Collaborative Process?
Any couple – whether married, unmarried, same-sex or opposite sex – who want to be respectful, transparent and open with each other and consider solutions that work for their whole family.
How the process works
- Initial individual meeting – you first meet individually with your collaborative lawyer.
- Joint meetings – with you, your ex-partner/spouse and both collaborative lawyers all present. Your solicitor will fully support you, but you and your former partner retain control of the process. All advice will be given openly in round table meetings.
- Open communication – between meetings you are likely to have phone calls with your collaborative lawyer. If the lawyers need to communicate between meetings they will phone each other rather than using written communication.
- Agreement reached – once an agreement is achieved, the court is involved only for formalities such as finalising the divorce/dissolution and sealing a financial consent order.
Who are collaborative lawyers?
Collaborative lawyers are specialist family solicitors who have also undertaken additional collaborative training through Resolution.
Why choose TWM Solicitors?
Our specialist collaborative solicitors are experienced in guiding clients through this positive and practical process. They will work closely with you to create tailored and sustainable solutions.
Next steps
If you are considering separation or divorce and want to avoid court, our Collaborative Family Law team can help. Get in touch with one of the team today.