Under the new ‘one couple, one lawyer’ model, ex-partners can use the same lawyer to get a divorce.
This approach can have many benefits, potentially making the divorce process quicker, smoother and easier for couples.
In his latest article, Family Expert Andrew Stynes outlines these benefits and how the new model works.
Can one lawyer act for both parties in a divorce?
Yes, it is now possible for one lawyer to act for both parties involved in a divorce under the new ‘one couple, one lawyer’ model introduced earlier this year.
As part of the new approach, spouses will be represented by the same lawyer who will assist in the application for divorce and advise on dividing finances and making child arrangements.
The launch of this new model follows on from the introduction of No-Fault Divorce in 2022. As well as removing the need for either party to blame each other for a relationship breakdown, No-Fault Divorce also allowed couples to jointly apply for divorce for the first time.
One couple one lawyer is almost the next step on from joint applications. Read how joint applications work here.
What is resolution together?
In line with this new model, Resolution, the family justice body, have launched ‘Resolution Together’ which follows the same ‘one couple, one lawyer’ approach.
Andrew Stynes, Resolution Together trained lawyer, said: “The new one couple one lawyer, or Resolution Together, approach is another step in the right direction in making divorces easier and quicker.
Having now received my training in this area, I am looking forward to helping couples to reach the best outcome together.”
When can a solicitor act for both parties?
The ‘one couple one lawyer’ approach works best in amicable separations, where both you and your ex-partner are happy to work together for your and your children’s benefit.
For separations that are less amicable, this approach may not be best suited as it will likely be difficult or even impossible for conflicting partners to work together.
What are the benefits of one couple one lawyer?
Separating using just one lawyer to separate can be much cheaper that the traditional route of instructing one lawyer for each partner. Costs will be shared between you and your ex-partner.
In addition, the resolution together method can also lead to a quicker divorce as there aren’t two solicitors involved who would usually negotiate and go back and forth on things such as child arrangements and finances.
With one lawyer, and in an amicable relationship, couples can come to a mutual agreement even before instructing a solicitor.
Related: Child Arrangement Orders - How they work and why you might need one
Avoiding conflict
Using one lawyer between a couple will mean that both parties’ best interests will be kept in mind, with your solicitor looking for the best outcome for both parties.
Again, this differs from the traditional method of hiring one lawyer each where each lawyer will be working to meet the best interests of each party which can lead to conflicts.
For example, if one party proposed a 60:40 split in finances the other may disagree which could lead to a disagreement. In resolution together separations, decisions on finances, for example, can be agreed more effectively.
Related: What is a financial order and why are they important?
What happens if there is conflict in resolution together?
If a dispute or conflict does arise in resolution together, your lawyer will liaise and work with you and your ex-partner to resolve the issue.
This will be done in a way that is acceptable to both parties, not just one.
Can you get divorced without a solicitor?
Yes, it is possible to get divorced without a solicitor. However, it isn’t recommended as it comes with some disadvantages.
Firstly, financial and child arrangements aren’t settled in ‘DIY Divorce’ so you’d have to apply for an order separately which could slow the process.
In addition, you won’t have a solicitor on hand to do all of the work for you, answer any questions you might have and, crucially, resolves disputes between you and your partner if they do arise.
To conclude, DIY Divorce, although cheaper, can take much longer, requires you to do all of the work yourself and can be difficult if conflicts occur!
Read our full article on DIY Divorce, the pros and cons and more, here.
How much does a divorce cost?
In terms of Court fees, the main divorce court fee is currently £593, the fee for child arrangements orders is £232 and financial court proceedings are £275, an application for the court to make an order that is agreed by both parties, a ‘consent order’ is £53.
Read about help with Court fees here.
At Frettens, we offer fixed fee divorces and will always be upfront and transparent about our fees. You can find out more here.
Your Guide to Divorce
At Frettens, we’ve put together a free all-in-one guide to navigating divorce that thousands of people have already read and downloaded.
The guide includes everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and amicable process from application to final order.
Bright and experienced Family Solicitors
If you have any questions following this article, or would like to instruct us to assist you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our bright Family Team.
We offer a free initial chat for all new clients, so you can speak to us to iron out the details and discuss your circumstances before committing to anything.
You can call us on 01202 499255 or fill out the form at the top of this page to find out more.
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