When love breaks down , too often battle lines are drawn , but there ’ s another way says Zoe Minton from Trethowans relationships
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Let ' s talk
When love breaks down , too often battle lines are drawn , but there ’ s another way says Zoe Minton from Trethowans relationships
“ Divorce can often be viewed as a battleground . But it doesn ’ t need to be this way ,” says Zoe Minton , family law solicitor in Trethowans ’ Winchester office . Zoe has advised on all aspects of family law for over 14 years , including financial settlements connected to divorce and disputes relating to children . As a member of Resolution , she is already committed to dealing with cases in a non-confrontational and constructive manner . Now a qualified Resolution Together solicitor , she is taking this approach further , helping couples resolve issues together with one lawyer , rather than each appointing their own solicitor .
Resolution Together , also known as ‘ One Couple , One Lawyer ’, aims to simplify the process , reduce conflict and achieve a more amicable solution . It was introduced by Resolution in 2022 – one of the latest developments over recent years to help change the antagonistic approach to divorce .
Zoe explains , “ We now have no-fault divorces and last April the rules around family disputes were updated to encourage families to resolve disputes outside of Court by using Non-Court Dispute Resolution ( NCDR ) methods , including mediation and arbitration . If you want to make an application to Court you have to provide evidence that you have considered the other options to resolve matters by other means first . This is a real shift .
“ Resolution Together is an easier , less expensive , less stressful , and a more practical way to approach divorce . It can also be considerably quicker .
“ In the past I have had many clients approach me and ask , ‘ can we come together ?’; historically they couldn ’ t . For such couples this is perfect .”
However , this approach isn ’ t appropriate for everyone . Zoe explains that both partners need to be engaged in the process . She meets each partner individually beforehand to assess for any imbalance of power in the relationship or domestic abuse . Only after she is satisfied that the Resolution Together approach is suitable does she arrange the first joint session .
“ My role is to help both of them come up with the best solution . What shall we do about the house ? What would be a mutually beneficial outcome for our family ? I think it ’ s great – a real push to avoid a hostile environment . If there is a sticking point they can ’ t agree on , there are other options , such as mediation or arbitration , to consider alongside the joint sessions , so that the process doesn ’ t breakdown .
“ Sometimes it is just that people want a chance to be heard . If both feel in control , it is hopefully a more positive experience for everyone , particularly if you have children and you are going to be in contact with each other going forward . This must be a better way for families .”
01962 670677 www . trethowans . com
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