One Couple, One Lawyer: Resolution Together

Resolution Together – One Couple, One Lawyer is a new service for couples who are separating – whether they are married or not.

It is an innovative option, approved by the Solicitors Regulation Authority designed to assist couples who want to work together to resolve issues and find the solution that best suits their family.

How does it work?

Resolution Together enables couples to work with one lawyer as opposed to seeking advice from separate lawyers, and this not only reduces the cost but also means that negotiations can be entered into much more quickly with the aim of reaching a mutually acceptable agreement without the need for protracted court proceedings.

1. Screening

Your Resolution Together lawyer meets both parties separately to explain the process and ensure it meets their needs. Additionally, they will carry out safeguarding checks so that they can be sure the parties are entering into the process willingly.

2. Joint sessions

The lawyer gathers relevant information from the couple about the issues that they need to resolve such as child arrangements and/or financial issues. In financial cases this will include obtaining full details of their financial circumstances. The aim is to provide the couple with joint advice following their separation and assist them in making decisions that best meet their family’s needs. The number of sessions will depend on the issues raised and complexity of the case.

3. Other Professionals

There may be a need to involve other professionals to help the couple reach agreement, such as family mediators, financial experts such as property valuers, accountants and pension experts. Additionally, we can call on family coaches, counsellors and therapists to assist the parties to navigate the process emotionally.

4. Preparation of Documents

Once the parties have decided on the outcome that suits them and their family, the lawyer will prepare the relevant legal documents recording their agreement. In financial cases, this will include preparing a financial order for submission to the court. In children cases, a parenting plan/agreement can be drawn up setting out the agreed child arrangements.

Benefits of Resolution Together

* It gives people the power to make their own decisions about arrangements for their children and/or separating their assets.

* It is cost effective as the couple shares the cost of one lawyer as opposed to one each.

* Couples work at their own pace. There is no rigid or imposed timetable.

* It avoids lengthy and protracted court proceedings, which can take months if not years to conclude, with no guaranteed outcome.

When doesn’t it work?

Resolution Together isn’t for everyone.  There are instances when it is not suitable such as:

* Where there is any form of domestic abuse and/or controlling and coercive behaviour.

* Where there is a power imbalance between a couple that cannot be managed.

* Where there is a disagreement between a couple that cannot be resolved.

* If either party feels unable to make their own decisions.

Resolution Together – The Process

For further details of our Resolution Together service, please contact Debra Frazer or Giles Robinson.

Family Law Video Explainers

We have put together a series of short videos covering some of the frequently asked questions that arise and also where the law stands on some family law issues. Click here to view.