Why the “one couple, one lawyer” method keeps you in control of your divorce

Zoe Rose, Partner at Knights, believes we could see a rise in the number of couples using the same lawyer to take them through their divorce. Zoe specialises in the “one couple, one lawyer” methodology and says she’s seeing a more collaborative approach from splitting couples.

One couple, one lawyer method

Whether done on its own or to ensure that the legal processes are addressed alongside mediation, the ‘one couple, one lawyer’ process aims to ensure that everyone is working together constructively rather than combatively. This way of working is all about a couple coming together to get legal advice from a single point of contact, at the same time.

“As the lawyer, we’d generally hold a series of meetings to give those involved the opportunity to discuss what’s important to them – focusing on those unavoidable legal issues that need to be talked about and give advice on these. We can also join the couple in mediation sessions and provide advice within mediation too.”

“It’s an interactive and open way of working which enables them to hear in real time the legal advice that goes alongside their divorce – whether that’s helping out with finances or agreeing child arrangements. It helps lead to amicable resolutions more quickly and cost effectively.”

A method that can work for many, not all

There are those cases where this approach is not appropriate – in particular, when there’s any form of domestic abuse or coercive control and lawyers need to advise accordingly to the best path. For those who can take the one couple, one lawyer route , it has proven beneficial to allow individuals to own own what they talk about – leading to fewer problems down the line.

This approach allows them to take ownership of any agreement they make – aiding a good practical working relationship between them, which is particularly important if they have young children or if they’re in business together.

Although this methodology for divorce is relatively new, this is absolutely something that I can see being recommended more by the Courts. There’s no hiding from the fact that the system is stretched and has been for quite a significant period, this process helps preserve those Court resources for those people that really need them.

Whilst not an option for everyone, it can be an option for some. It really gives people a better option for moving through what is a difficult time and a complicated legal process in a way that they can keep control.

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