Beverley Johnson is a local expert in divorce and collaborative law. Below is a breakdown of how it works and whether it’s for you.

Collaborative law

Communication can be difficult during a divorce. The inevitable tensions between you and your spouse can cloud issues and make it hard to move discussions forward. Collaborative law is a more productive way to deal with the issues whilst retaining a face-to-face dialogue.

How it works

You and your partner will each appoint your own lawyer and then attend ‘four way meetings’. These involve you, your spouse and both lawyers sitting down and discussing the issues.

You’ll begin by signing a ‘Participation Agreement’ declaring that neither of you will issue proceedings. Your partner and both lawyers will also sign the agreement. This means that if the communication fails, the collaborative process will end. And if one of you goes to court without the other’s agreement both lawyers will have to stop acting.

This gives everyone a good reason to keep the process going and make it work.

The benefits

Collaborative law makes communication easier, more direct and less hostile. The main benefits are:

  • Working together
    You can agree on what’s best for you, your spouse and your children.
  • Independence
    Your lawyer will help you make decisions yourself, meaning a more honest process.
  • Improved relationship with your partner
    With direct communication (as opposed to litigation or the court process) you can strengthen your relationship with your ex husband or wife. Meaning a better future for both of you and your children.
  • Flexibility
    You can have as many or as few meetings as you need.
  • No beating around the bush
    Collaborative law means you can identify and deal with the issues much more quickly than via letters or in a court. Giving you the freedom to get on with your life.
  • Creative solutions
    By sitting down and talking about the problems, you can come up with solutions that suit everyone. This is often not possible via solicitor negotiations or in court.
  • Cheaper
    Going to court is expensive and a lot of hassle. Collaborative law is less expensive and can save you a lot of hostility.

The differences

For collaborative law to work, both you and your ex-partner must commit to the process and be prepared to agree on what’s best for everyone. The overall aim is to figure out how to create a brighter future for your whole family.

If this is your goal, collaborative law is for you.

However, if you feel your partner won’t take the process seriously or will try to hide information then it’s not for you. Collaborative law is built on trust. You must have an open mind and be honest with each other. If you’re looking to get the best deal for yourself and move on, hire a solicitor to negotiate your terms.

The cost

While collaborative law is cheaper than going to court, it can be more costly than mediation or solicitor to solicitor negotiation.

Your lawyer will be involved at every stage to oversee proceedings and offer advice. Which means their hours will always increase. But the benefit is that you’re likely to get the best outcome for everyone.

Some lawyers charge by the session or offer a fixed fee collaborative process. Contact Beverley Johnson for more information on fees.

How to know if it’s for you

You should think carefully about what you want from your divorce. Consider how it could affect your children, finances and possessions. Do some research and get a better perspective on your situation and options. And think about whether the approach would appeal to your partner. Collaborative law doesn’t work without everyone on board.

The first steps

Get in touch with Beverley Johnson today to find out more information or get the ball rolling.