South-west and London law firm Wilsons Solicitors has launched its new service which gives separating couples an opportunity to divorce amicably with just one lawyer.
The new service is designed for couples who want to make a decision together over their individual needs, and if they are parents, their children’s. This approach aims to reduce unnecessary conflict during the divorce and can also be a more cost-effective option.
The new Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2022, which also brought in no-fault divorce, introduced the ability for separating couples to make joint applications to end the marriage together. Previously this option was unavailable. It follows that a joint approach to how the parties’ finances are resolved, and or child arrangements, is dealt with in similar vein.
Wilsons are very pleased to be offering the ‘one lawyer, one couple’ service under the ‘Resolution Together’ model, developed by the top family law association to ensure all lawyers offering this service follow a standardised process and are equipped to offer this collaborative approach. Extensive training with Resolution has been received, and the team will adhere to the model’s Code of Practice, which also complies with the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s Standards and Regulations as well as other governing body’s regulations. Lisa Payne, an Associate within the firm’s Family Team said:
“I am proud to be a Resolution Together trained lawyer. I take pride in settling matters for my clients in the most amicable way I can, and so it felt natural to me, to want to extend my advice and guidance to both parties.
“This service will not suit all clients, but for those it will, I know they and the wider family will benefit.”
Lisa has recently been ranked as Associate to Watch within the prestigious Chambers and Partners, which is a nod to her expertise within her practice.
This service has been introduced following last year’s appointment of Natasha Grande as Partner and Head of the Family Team, whose aim since joining has been to expand the firm’s capability to offer a collaborative approach to divorce. Natasha has also been ranked within Chambers as One to Watch, evidencing the calibre of the lawyers within the Team. Natasha Grande, Head of the Family Team and Partner at Wilsons Solicitors said:
“Through our years of experience, we know that a relationship breakdown is rarely just a legal issue impacting two people. And for those with families in particular, the stakes are incredibly high to ensure relationships are maintained. Emotions run high and at times it can feel overwhelming. We take time to see the ‘full picture’ of a divorce, and that’s why we are committed to offering the ‘one lawyer, one couple’ solution.
“We are committed to offering a bespoke approach under this model, offering not just the best possible outcome for a divorcing couple, but the most realistic and workable, long-term.
“That being said, we acknowledge every family has different needs and that this service won’t be for everyone. We offer a range of dispute resolution solutions for clients to support them through the divorce process.”