Resolution Together: a one lawyer, two clients approach to separation or divorce

Resolution Together is a progressive initiative designed for couples navigating divorce, separation, or related family issues. Unlike traditional methods, where each party instructs their own solicitor, Resolution Together allows one impartial lawyer to work with and advise both parties jointly. This approach promotes mutual respect, reduces conflict, and focuses on achieving outcomes that meet the needs and wishes of the couple and their family.

How does Resolution Together work?
The process begins with a thorough assessment to determine whether the model is appropriate for the couple. Key considerations include trust, willingness to cooperate, and the absence of abuse or coercion. If suitable, the process includes:

Scoping meeting: both individuals meet separately with the solicitor. These sessions explore the relationship dynamics, identify the points the couple wish to resolve, issues, areas of conflict as well as goals, and importantly ensure that both parties can participate freely and openly.
Joint discussions: following individual sessions, joint meetings are conducted to discuss the key issues such as financial disclosure, property division, child arrangements, and future financial planning.
Legal advice and guidance: unlike mediation, where no legal advice is given, the solicitor actively advises both parties on the law, procedure and the legal implications of their decisions.
Drafting agreements: once agreements are reached, the solicitor drafts legally binding documents, such as consent orders, for approval by the court if necessary.
Implementation: the solicitor supports the couple in finalising and submitting their agreement, ensuring clarity and adherence to legal standards, and putting the terms of the agreement into effect.

Benefits of Resolution Together

Reduced conflict: by avoiding adversarial positions, the approach fosters cooperation and minimises emotional strain.
Cost-effective: using a single lawyer significantly reduces legal fees compared to each party hiring separate solicitors.
Faster resolutions: streamlined communication by way of meetings rather than letters often leads to quicker agreements.
Empowering process: couples actively shape their outcomes, which reduces resentment and promotes long-term satisfaction.
Child-focused: the model prioritises the best interests of children and helps parents / couples work together constructively.

Is Resolution Together right for you?
This approach works best for couples who are committed to managing their separation amicably, sharing information openly, and working towards agreed solutions. It is ideal for those who answer “yes” to the following questions:

Are you willing to engage cooperatively and openly?
Are you emotionally ready to work together?
Can you freely participate without pressure or coercion?

When is Resolution Together not suitable?
Certain circumstances might make this approach inappropriate, including:

Ongoing or historical domestic abuse or safeguarding concerns
Significant power imbalances that cannot be managed
High emotional conflict
Unwillingness to disclose relevant information or documentation.

What happens next?
Jonathan da Costa offers Resolution Together and you can meet with him at our offices in Margate or in Castle Street, Canterbury. Jonathan also often speaks to clients via Zoom or Teams.

The first step is to contact Jonathan, who will conduct initial discussions to assess suitability. If everyone feels that this way of working is suitable then Jonathan will arrange a first joint meeting when he will outline the process, set expectations, and agree on a timeline tailored to the couple’s needs.

Reaching an outcome
Once an agreement is reached, a draft consent order is prepared and reviewed to ensure it aligns with legal principles. Jonathan advises on submitting the order to court for approval, facilitating a smooth conclusion to the process.

Your next steps
Resolution Together represents a transformative and collaborative method for resolving family disputes. By enabling one impartial solicitor to guide and advise both parties, it offers a cost-effective, efficient, and less adversarial alternative to traditional approaches. While not suitable for all situations, it provides a valuable pathway for couples seeking constructive, family-focused solutions.

You can contact Jonathan directly via his profile page. If you are researching your options, you may also wish to listen to Jonathan discussing Resolution Together with a colleague on SoundCloud (no account or app required).