Good Divorce Week – Alternatives to Family Court
There is such a thing as a good divorce and family law experts from Resolution are hoping that the non-confrontational approach to separation which they advocate will help to resolve the current family court crisis, as well as reduce the cost of divorce.
Good Divorce Week from November 28th to December 2nd is this year highlighting these problems and hopes to raise awareness of all the different ways families can resolve their disputes away from Court - where it is safe and appropriate to do so.
At Pearson, our family team are members of Resolution* and work hard to achieve, whenever possible, an amicable divorce settlement for clients.
Family Court Backlogs
Family courts are currently facing backlogs in terms of dealing with listings and administrative tasks and so unfortunately just when couples thought no-fault divorce would speed up the process they are being left waiting long periods of time to sort out finances and children arrangements.
This year has seen a radical change in the way divorce is undertaken with the introduction of no-fault divorce. It has made separating not only cheaper but it was hoped it would also be quicker and reduce anger and resentment towards one another, as one side does not now have to be blamed in the process.
“We always welcome amicable divorce especially where children are involved and work closely within the Resolution guidelines to achieve this,” said divorce solicitor, Lucinda McWatt.
“What we find our clients want is an idea of how much a divorce will cost them, how quickly it can be achieved and what the process is.
The current court crisis is a perfect storm of more divorces after the no-fault ruling and Covid backlogs, so we welcome anything to make the process more amicable removing the need for combative court proceedings,” she added.
“Obviously if it comes to it we fight for our clients in court and we can manage any pension sharing agreements and financial orders needed. However, Good Divorce Week is a timely reminder to keep matters civil and cordial as it makes the process less stressful for both parties and hopefully preserves any ongoing relationships relating to shared childcare.”
Amicable Divorce
An amicable approach to divorce can reduce arguments minimising the need for your divorce solicitor to enter lengthy negotiations. It can also help avoid attending the family court, as a result reducing legal fees, which are important in the current climate.
“We are coming to that time of year when couples might be having that one last Christmas together before a new year split and so I would encourage anyone in this position to try and keep things on an even keel as it will save them time, heartache and money in the long run,” added Lucinda.
How can we help
For help and advice on what to do if you are considering divorce call our friendly family team for a chat on 0161 785 3500 or family@pearsonlegal.co.uk
*Resolution was founded in 1982 by a group of family lawyers who believed that a non-confrontational approach to family law issues would produce better outcomes for separating families and their children. The aim is an amicable divorce and they use their annual Good Divorce Week to raise awareness of the alternatives to court proceedings for a divorce settlement.
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