A fresh perspective on 'Divorce Day'

Rachel Buckley, Joint Managing Director of The Family Law Company, is setting a precedent for a less combative approach to divorce, having recently qualified as a Collaborative Lawyer.

This announcement comes as timely preparation for "Divorce Day," observed this year on Monday, January 6.

Collaborative law offers separating couples an alternative to the traditional court-driven divorce process.

The approach involves each party appointing their own lawyer, with all participants meeting face-to-face to negotiate and reach amicable agreements on issues such as child arrangements and financial matters.

Rachel explained the benefits: "The collaborative process allows couples to come to an amicable agreement, avoiding acrimony. Emotional and contentious elements can be resolved swiftly, eliminating the delays and heightened tensions often experienced in court proceedings."

This process reduces the need for prolonged correspondence, potentially cutting costs and expediting resolutions. It also enables bespoke solutions tailored to a couple's unique circumstances, something not always possible in court rulings.

With the UK court system facing significant backlogs in family law cases, collaborative law provides a faster and often more affordable path to resolution.

Buckley and her firm are also well-versed in other non-court dispute resolution methods, including mediation and arbitration, reinforcing their commitment to finding the best solutions for clients.

"We aim to ensure children are not caught in the middle and to respect individual circumstances," Rachel said. "When possible, a non-adversarial approach offers dignity and respect for all parties involved."

Rachel achieved her accreditation through Resolution, an organisation dedicated to constructive family justice.

Established in 1991, The Family Law Company by Hartnell Chanot has become the largest family law specialist firm in the South West, with offices in Exeter, Plymouth, and Truro. The firm is renowned for its client-centred approach and commitment to excellence, holding multiple industry qualifications.