Collaborative law in divorce

The collaborative law process takes a non-confrontational approach to divorce and family matters. Each party appoints their own specialist collaborative lawyer, who will support and advise them through a process of face-to-face discussions.

Collaborative lawyers receive highly specialised training. Napthens’ own family law partner Helen Lucking is one of only a few lawyers in the north west who have trained and qualified in this specialist field.

The process is less acrimonious, less expensive and quicker than court proceedings, because the parties involved work together with their solicitors to reach agreement, rather than having a decision imposed upon them.

How Napthens can help

We will have an initial discussion and so will the other party with their solicitor, to explain what is expected and what will be needed to prepare for the process.

We will then accompany you to collaborative meetings (often called ‘four way’ meetings) because they are between both parties and their legal representatives.

The initial meeting will focus on ensuring both parties understand they are committing to working things out without going to court.

We will then oversee the signing of an agreement to achieve set objectives and work collaboratively to reach them, by a series of round table meetings.

Timescales for this process are not prescribed, but we will provide support and advice until the final agreement is signed.