Reducing conflict in divorce: The One Lawyer, Resolution Together approach

This can be the case even if you have simply grown apart over time and there are no significant issues.

In many cases, the worry can exacerbated by conflict arising from the competing interests of both sides, from financial and parenting arrangements to the assignment of ‘blame’ for the deterioration of the relationship.

As a way of mitigating these financial and emotional pressures which compound the already stressful process of divorce, a new approach is emerging: One Lawyer, Resolution Together.

The concept of ‘conscious uncoupling’ has been around for a long while – the process of ending a relationship in a respectful, mindful and compassionate manner. It encourages collaboration between a separating couple with a view to them coming to an amicable resolution that empowers both parties to heal and move on with their lives without unnecessary stress and animosity.

What is the One Lawyer, Resolution Together model?

One Lawyer, Resolution Together is the term given to the practical approach of engaging one lawyer to work with both parties to resolve the legal and financial considerations that apply to divorce as well as the child arrangements. This is different to the conventional approach of each party having their own legal advice and representation.

The aim of this to avoid the sadly oppositional nature of the traditional approach whereby competing interests are often at play.

Understandably, the more areas of contention the lengthier the process of negotiation and any subsequent court proceedings will be. This means the associated financial cost and emotional strain can spiral.

Taking a One Lawyer model approach eliminates a significant cost right from the outset, with the need for only one lawyer required to work with both parties rather than two.

It is imperative to have an experienced lawyer given that your lawyer will provide both parties with neutral and non-strategic advice. The process removes the element of two conflicting sides trying to ‘win’ and the consequent pressures this brings. while reducing the negative knock-on effects for any children involved and the wider family, for whom it is already likely to be a sensitive time.

Ultimately, it prevents the situation from developing into a protracted and heated battle that consumes an undue amount of time, money and energy for both parties.

Is the One Lawyer, Resolution Together model right for me?

This approach to divorce has some appealing benefits, but it is not necessarily right for all couples. Your lawyer will conduct a very detailed risk assessment and honing in on their experience will determine whether your case is appropriate. Both parties need to be committed to engaging in constructive dialogue between one another. The lawyer can then advise and support the parties through the process which from experience, reduces conflict and improves communication and understanding.

Open and honest communication from the outset as to whether this is a process that will work for both parties is essential. For the One Lawyer approach to be effective, it requires a forward-looking attitude, rather than reliving painful memories, assigning blame and airing grievances around what has come before.

How Ward Hadaway can help

Ward Hadaway’s specialist divorce lawyers have a wealth of experience in handling divorce and separation cases with empathy and respect to help achieve resolutions that give the best possible platform for clients to gain closure and start a new chapter in their lives.

If you think the One Lawyer, Resolution Together model could be an appropriate pathway for your divorce or separation, get in touch with our legal experts today.