Collaborative Law Solicitors

Preparation makes a big difference. Gather the key documents - especially anything financial - and think carefully about what you want to achieve. It also helps to be open to compromise and keep conversations respectful, even when emotions are running high. Speaking to your solicitor beforehand can clarify your legal position and give you a clear strategy, so you walk into the session feeling confident and ready.Speaking to your solicitor beforehand can clarify your legal position and give you a clear strategy, so you walk into the session feeling confident and ready.

It depends on the process. Agreements reached in family mediation or collaborative law aren’t legally binding unless they’re turned into a consent order approved by the court. Once that happens, the court can enforce the terms if someone doesn’t comply.Arbitration is different: the arbitrator’s decision is legally binding from the outset and enforceable like a court judgment. If one side ignores it, legal action can be taken - sometimes with financial penalties. Your family arbitration solicitor can explain your options if this becomes an issue. 

Arbitration is a private way of resolving disputes. You and your partner appoint an arbitrator, who acts much like a judge, to make a decision on finances or child arrangements. It’s often faster and more flexible than going through the courts, and it avoids the delays - and publicity - that court cases can involve.For many couples, arbitration provides a clear outcome in a quicker, more discreet setting.

Collaborative law means both you and your partner - and your solicitors - commit to resolving everything outside court. You’ll attend a series of face-to-face meetings, working together to agree on finances, property, and child arrangements.A key feature is that if the process breaks down, the solicitors involved can’t go on to represent you in court. That rule helps keep everyone focused on reaching an agreement.

Yes. Increasingly, couples are choosing the ‘one couple, one lawyer’ approach. This works best when both partners are broadly in agreement and want an amicable process. The solicitor provides neutral guidance and helps ensure everything is handled fairly. If major disagreements arise, though, separate legal advice may still be needed.

Absolutely. Mediation, arbitration, and collaborative law can all be used to decide where children live, how much time they spend with each parent and the financial support they receive. These processes give parents more control, encourage cooperation and focus on the child’s best interests - often producing more practical solutions than a court might impose.

Arbitration awards are legally binding straight away. Mediation and collaborative law agreements only become binding once they’re formalised in a court-approved consent order. Your solicitor can make sure this step is taken so there’s certainty and enforceability going forward.

Mediation involves sitting down with a trained mediator, who helps you and your partner talk through issues like money, property and arrangements for your children. The mediator doesn’t take sides but helps keep discussions focused and constructive.Mediation is usually quicker, less stressful and less costly than going to court. Any agreement you reach can later be made legally binding through a consent order.