At Thomas Mansfield Family Law, we understand that divorce or separation can be overwhelming.
That’s why we offer a simpler approach.
Instead of hiring separate solicitors, both of you can work together with one experienced lawyer to resolve matters smoothly. This helps reduce stress, minimise costs and keep things moving forward quickly. If you’re looking for a more straightforward and amicable way to reach an agreement, we’re here to help.
When you and your partner work with the same lawyer, you avoid the added stress of conflicting advice and unnecessary delays. You’ll both receive joint legal advice and impartial guidance, helping you stay on track and reach an agreement more quickly. Our approach also helps reduce the costs and the emotional impact of a separation.
Deciding how to handle your separation is a big step, and it’s important to find the right approach for both of you. Our one couple one lawyer or joint representation option works well for many couples, but it may not suit everyone.
If there’s a willingness to collaborate and communicate, this method can offer a smoother and more efficient way forward. However, if there are complex financial issues, power imbalances or ongoing conflict, separate legal representation is likely to be more appropriate.
If you and your partner are ready to communicate and resolve matters together, this approach could be ideal. It allows you to maintain control over your decisions while staying focused on achieving the best outcomes for both of you.
This option is designed to reduce stress and foster cooperation. By working with a neutral lawyer, you can avoid the heated disputes often associated with traditional divorce proceedings, keeping the process calm and manageable.
With a shared lawyer, you can work together to make decisions that reduce the impact on your children. This approach helps ensure they are shielded from unnecessary stress, with their best interests always at the forefront of your discussions.
Choosing one lawyer helps maintain privacy throughout the process. Your discussions remain confidential, and you’re able to progress at a pace that suits both of you, without the pressure of court-imposed deadlines.
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At Thomas Mansfield Family Law, our solicitors have many years of experience in handling amicable separations and are skilled in guiding couples through out of court resolution processes.
We specialise in providing alternatives to traditional court proceedings, ensuring a smoother and less stressful journey for both of you. Our team are all members of Resolution, an organisation dedicated to promoting constructive, non-confrontational solutions to family law issues.
At Thomas Mansfield you will receive advice that prioritises cooperation and mutual respect coupled with fair outcomes as the ultimate goal. Our approach will help you find the best way forward together.
With offices across London and the South East, as well as remote consultation options, we offer convenient and accessible support wherever you are.
Our friendly team is looking forward to hearing from you and understanding your concerns and objectives. If we can’t speak with you straight away we’ll arrange a convenient time to discuss your case. Our experienced one couple, one lawyer specialists will listen and guide you through your options.
What is the best way of preparing for arbitration, collaborative law or mediation sessions?
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.
What happens if one party doesn’t comply with an out of court decision?
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.
How can arbitration help with divorce or separation?
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.
What is collaborative law in divorce proceedings?
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.
Can a divorcing couple use the same solicitor?
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.
Can out of court approaches be used to address child arrangements & support?
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.
Are agreements reached through arbitration, mediation, and collaborative law legally binding?
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.
How does mediation work in divorce or separation cases?
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.
Arrange a confidential chat with one of our expert family law solicitors today.
Please note we cannot offer legal aid.
