Samantha Chase (Associate Solicitor), Sally Ward (Senior Associate Solicitor) and Anna Cross (Legal Director) are pleased to offer clients this innovative approach to helping families on a divorce / separation, and which is designed to help separating couples resolve issues without the need to go to court

Samantha Chase answers frequently asked questions:

What is Resolution Together?

Resolution Together is a way of working that allows lawyers to work with and advise separating couples jointly, including providing appropriate legal advice, through a divorce or separation.

Resolution Together has been a natural progression following the introduction of no-fault divorces in April 2022, and the change in divorce law that allows couples to now have the ability to make joint divorce applications. It also provides another option for negotiating a settlement on the finance or child arrangements without going to court which is something that most couples are now required to attempt since new court rules were introduced in May 2024.

Who is Resolution Together suitable for?

Resolution Together is suitable for couples wanting to avoid unnecessary conflict during their separation. The couple will need to be able to work constructively with one another and be able to advocate for themselves in joint meetings. It is also important that the couple are also willing to be open, honest and give full disclosure of their respective circumstances and financial assets to the other.

Resolution Together will not be suitable for all couples, and the lawyer will discuss this with you before any joint meetings take place. For example, where there are still high emotions, there has been a significant power imbalance within the relationship or where there has been a history of domestic abuse or coercive control.

How does Resolution Together work?

Your lawyer will provide you with all the help and assistance you need to reach an agreement together, after collating necessary documents/information needed so that you can both make an informed decision. They will provide you with legal advice jointly, which focusses on the best interests of the family, rather than either one of you gaining over the other, to the detriment of the family as a whole. Your lawyer will assist you together to reach an outcome and will also be able to help you record your decisions in an appropriate and legally binding way.

Why should you choose Resolution Together?

  • Cost effective – one lawyer means you only pay for one legal professional’s time and expertise, rather than each party incurring separate legal fees (apart from the initial individual screening meetings which are charged separately).
  • Progression – where a couple have a mutual goal to reach an amicable outcome which benefits the family as a whole, the process can be time managed more effectively and usually a resolution reached quicker. It will also avoid the need to apply to court, and the lengthy delays associated with this.
  • Amicable – the process will enable the couple to remain on good terms and will minimise stress associated with the separation.
  • Tailored – Your lawyer will help you design the service you need; they can help you in arranging other professionals to provide support or advice you may need in a team approach. That might include financial advisers, family consultants/coaches, barristers who can provide an early neutral evaluation for example.

If you are interested in Resolution Together or have any questions, please contact Samantha Chase – Samantha.Chase@ellisons.com or on 01206 719253.