Collaborative Law

Separation without litigation, a new alternative to family law.

When a relationship breaks down it is never easy and the separation process can be a very stressful one. It is because of this a new alternative has been sought. Working alongside separating couples Collaborative Law is a non-confrontational alternative to litigation, helping to resolve all aspects of the separation, including the division of the assets and income and the future care of any children in a harmonious way.

Collaborative Law gives the opportunity for a couple to work together in a series of direct, open and honest discussions about the terms of their separation. Each party involved has a lawyer who is trained in Collaborative Law and meetings take place with the couple and their lawyers where they discuss the separation in order to agree a solution to mutual benefit.

How does it work?

• Initially the couple and their individual lawyers get together to set out their objectives on what they want to achieve and they will also sign an agreement which states that no court proceedings will occur throughout the process.
• Everyone involved in the process has to agree to cooperate with each other in working to find an agreeable solution.
• The process consists of a series of meetings, between the couple and their lawyers. Throughout the meetings, discussions and negotiations will take place in order for both parties to work through arrangements for the separation. If required, there will be plenty of opportunity to have one on one meetings with your own lawyer to arrange information and take stock on the discussions taking place.
• Throughout the process you and your lawyer will work together to forge a solution that will suit your family's circumstances.
• Following on from the meetings and once an agreement has been made, a settlement will be submitted by the lawyers to the court for approval.

Why choose collaborative law?

• The process enables you to keep in control of the proceedings throughout the separation.
• A trained collaborative lawyer will be with you throughout the process
• By conducting your separation this way, you reduce the chance of having to take the matter to court and avoid any nasty confrontation through court proceedings.
• You are able to choose the structure of the process, including setting our your objectives. Enabling you to have more control and a say in the decisions that are made.
• As you are in control, you can set the time limits on the process, which is something that you are not able to do if the separation was in the hands of the court.
• Because of the process itself and the lack of court proceedings, you are able to keep family relations as intact as is possible throughout this difficult time.

Based at the firm's Sheldon and Shirley office, Judi Wood is qualified as a Collaborative Lawyer and can be contacted on 0121 746 3360.