When the slump hits the ex-factor…
Until recently divorce has usually involved one partner buying the other’s share in the marital property, or alternatively selling the house and dividing the assets. However, the credit crunch and the housing slump means that moving from one family home to two has never been more difficult.
In the current climate, separating couples frequently have no choice but to continue living together after their relationship has broken down, while those who do manage to achieve a sale are often left with less money in the ‘pot’ to share out due to falling house prices. So it comes as no surprise that couples are looking to family lawyers to help find alternatives to the traditional divorce process.
One such alternative, pioneered by the family law group, Resolution, is a process known as collaborative law. In collaborative law, separating couples and their lawyers sit down together and work things out face to face. At the heart of the process is a written agreement that the divorce will not result in going to court. The emphasis is on finding solutions rather than fighting. Such face to face discussions can avoid protracted correspondence between solicitors and can also be far cheaper than the traditional process of going through the courts.
The collaborative process is not right for everyone – it takes time and commitment but it does offer a very real alternative to many couples who are genuinely seeking to resolve their differences and move forward in their lives.
Partner
Family Law
PLancaster@LawBlacks.com
0113 227 9285
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Paul Lancaster
