This week is Good Divorce Week – a time to spotlight the need for better support for families going through separation.
For some couples, litigation may well be the only way for them to resolve their dispute, but far too many families going through separation end up in avoidable and acrimonious court proceedings.
It doesn’t have to be like this – with members of our Family Law team also being Resolution members, we believe there is a ‘better way’.
There is a ‘better way’
Divorce is never easy. There is a stereotype and stigma attached to it, and unless you’ve been through it yourself, your only experience may be through sensationalist TV dramas or films or reading about the high-profile, multi-million pound cases in the news.
Perhaps understandably, many see divorce as highly acrimonious, riddled with conflict and bitterness, with a devastating impact on children. But for many, the reality is very different. The truth is, court should be a last resort. There are alternative paths that can be less stressful, more affordable, and far less damaging – especially for children.
Guided by a Code that puts families first
Resolution, an organisation made up of more than 6,500 family justice professionals, has members who are supporting people every day to find a better way.
What sets Resolution members apart is our commitment to a Code of Practice, to support clients to resolve matters as constructively – and with as little conflict – as possible, keeping the best interests of children at the heart.
Resolution’s Code of Practice sets out the principles of a non-confrontational approach to family matters, supporting our ethos and guiding how we work.
Where it’s possible to do so, we seek to resolve problems outside of court, through a range of options, helping couples take more control over the process and enabling them to move on with their lives more quickly than through the courts.
The Code isn’t just a set of ideals – it’s a practical, everyday guide for how we work with our peers, colleague and our clients:
• We avoid inflammatory language
• We support and encourage families to put the best interests of children first
• We act with honesty, integrity and objectivity
• We help clients consider the long-term emotional and financial impact of their decisions
• We promote communication and collaboration wherever possible
• We use experience and knowledge to guide clients through the options available to them
In-House Mediation at SH&Co.
One of the options to resolve problems outside of court is mediation - a voluntary process for couples who have already decided to separate or divorce.
It focuses on helping couple resolve and prevent disputes in relation to property, assets and finance. Where children are involved, it includes reaching mutually acceptable proposals relating to their care, contact arrangements, co-parenting plans and can help couples for the future in how to move forwards for the sake of the children.
Mediation is confidential, allowing both parties to speak freely and directly to each other in a neutral environment.
In addition to our Family Law Team’s commitment to the Resolution Code, at SH&Co. we are also able to offer clients in-house mediation service - a Family Law Director at SH&Co, I am also a Resolution-trained All Issues and Family Mediation Council-accredited Mediator.
Supporting Good Divorce Week
Good Divorce Week is about raising awareness of this approach – one that puts children first, reduces conflict, and encourages solutions that work for everyone involved.
As Resolution members, we’re proud to be part of a community that champions these values and advocates for change in our family justice system. Every family deserves the chance to find a better way through separation – one that’s constructive, compassionate, and fair.
If you’re facing a separation or want to learn more about your options, we’re here to help you take that first step and offer all new Family Law clients a FREE initial consultations and/or Fixed Fee Appointments.
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