Since the Summer of 2024 Stephens Scown’s family team have offered a joint advice service for divorcing couples called Resolution Together.
Joint advice for couples divorcing
This process is suitable for amicable couples who both want to achieve a fair outcome for each other and are happy to take neutral advice rather than strive for their best-case scenario. The service is not suitable for all couples, for example where there has been a history of abuse or coercive control.
It works a bit like mediation – the couple meet with the lawyer together – but the difference with Resolution Together is that there is a lawyer who can give legal advice to help the couple resolve any differences of opinion.
The process is tailored to the couple’s circumstances and assets, just as any financial negotiation process is. It does not mean corners are cut in terms of the information gathered and we continue to make sure where asset values are not agreed that expert valuations are obtained and pension sharing options are explored with an actuary where appropriate.
Benefits of Resolution Together
The benefits of this service are that it avoids the risk of the couple becoming polarised by separate solicitors as well as also reducing the costs involved.
A flowchart setting out how the process works is shown below (click to view full-screen):
Sarah Atkinson, a partner in the family team, is leading this service and has found it to be very positive so far, commenting “The couples I am working with are finding it really user-friendly as they get all the information at the same time and share the cost between them. It has really enabled me to short-circuit the process by avoiding the need to liaise with another lawyer about every step and we are just cracking on to get assets valued and work on the settlement discussions. It is a refreshing change after almost two decades of advising couples through what can be quite a contentious process.”
Sarah has almost 20 years’ experience advising on high net worth divorce and all related financial matters and is experienced in advising on business interests, trust interests, complex pension assets and farms. She is a member of Resolution and is committed to taking a constructive and non-confrontational approach to resolving family issues.
If you would like to know more information about how this service could help you please get in touch today on: 0345 450 5558 or: enquiries@stephens-scown.co.uk