Court isn’t always the best route. The stakes can be high, and the process can be stressful and expensive. We tend to think of court as a last resort.
Instead, we prefer non-court dispute resolution methods such as mediation and collaborative family law. These methods can often lower the temperature of a dispute, and give you a quicker, more economical resolution.
How can you resolve family matters without going to court?
Mediation
During a mediation, you and your partner try to come to an acceptable agreement about the matters in dispute between you. You can opt to have your lawyers present, but importantly, there is also a mediator.
The mediator is a neutral third party, who facilitates open communication and negotiation. They are legally trained so they understand the nuance of the law in your situation.
They will listen to your point of view and help you find a way forward that accommodates everyone’s needs.
Collaborative family law
Collaborative family law is a process for couples to resolve issues such as finances and child arrangements. The process is non-adversarial. You each have a lawyer, but you also work with neutral professionals such as financial advisors, family consultants, or child specialists. Together, the team help you devise and agree a settlement.
One lawyer: Two clients
In this model, both parties instruct the same lawyer to resolve disputes without going to court.
