One Lawyer service launched to support amicable divorces
30th September, 2025
UK Top 100 law firm Ward Hadaway has launched its new ‘One Lawyer’ service to support couples who want to resolve their separation in a straight forward fashion and amicably.
The model enables one lawyer to work neutrally with both parties, helping them to agree financial and child arrangements and issues without the cost and stress of instructing separate lawyers.
Ward Hadaway is one of the only firms in the North East with two specialists trained to offer this service, helping separating couples to move on with their lives collaboratively, reduce costs and limit the emotional strain on their families.
Gemma Iceton, Partner in Ward Hadaway’s Family & Matrimonial team, said: “Divorce has traditionally been prone to creating an adversarial environment where separating couples can become focused on blame and on securing the ‘best deal’ for themselves. That often results in a more drawn out and expensive process. By opting for a One Lawyer approach, families can talk openly and support one another, in getting to the next chapter of their lives.
“This can be particularly important when children are involved. Co-parenting arrangements are often one of the most difficult aspects of a separation, and the One Lawyer approach helps parents work together.”
The service is led by Partners Louise Masters and Gemma Iceton, both experienced family lawyers trained in collaboration and conflict resolution. Together, they have more than 40 years’ legal experience in helping families navigate divorce and separation.
Louise explains that while the One Lawyer approach is not appropriate in every situation, having successfully supported various families in this model to secure a mutually acceptable outcome, it provides a much better platform for moving onto the next part of their lives, outside of the relationship.
Ward Hadaway’s Family & Matrimonial team advises clients nationally on a wide range of issues, including divorce, child arrangements and financial settlements and protection of assets.
Find out more about the One Lawyer approach here.
Please note that this briefing is designed to be informative, not advisory and represents our understanding of English law and practice as at the date indicated. We would always recommend that you should seek specific guidance on any particular legal issue.
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