What Is A Collaborative Divorce? How Does It Work? & Is It Cheaper?

A less confrontational and more dignified approach to divorce may well be the way forward!

What Is A Collaborative Divorce? 

Collaborative divorce or collaborative separation is a process in which divorcing couples opt for an amicable divorce by having face-to-face meetings alongside a legal professional to come to a divorce agreement. Collaborative divorce is a way to satisfy the needs of all parties effectively and quicker than other divorce methods.

What Are The Benefits Of A Collaborative Divorce? 

Opting for a collaborative divorce will have benefits for you and your partner:



• Your divorce is dealt with on more private terms 
• It is much cheaper as it cuts out litigation fees
• You have more control over the decisions that are made 
• Less of an emotional journey (reduced stress, anxiety and frustration)
• Your children are more shielded from the process
• Quicker timescales getting your decree absolute

Collaborative Divorce has steadily grown in popularity as the cost of litigation rises and people become more aware of the potentially devastating effects that a high conflict divorce can have on children.

How Does A Collaborative Divorce Work?

Known as the ‘Collaborative’ approach – this involves each partner instructing a ‘collaboratively trained’ lawyer and the lawyers will then arrange a series of face-to-face meetings which are attended by both partners and both of their lawyers. All of the parties attend the meetings together and work together to come to an agreement.

This process avoids the exchange of length solicitors letters about any issues, when instead they can be resolved face-to-face in a meeting - this is what drastically reduces the legal costs for both parties!

How Long Does It Take For  A Collaborative Divorce Be Completed? 

Collaborative Divorces are popular for the quick timescale. However, you must remember that it is all dependent on yours and your partners willingness to cooperate in meetings. The aim of a collaborative divorce is to hold meetings allowing parties to reach an agreement. If this agreement takes longer than expected, so will your divorce.

What Will Happen To Your Finances During A Collaborative Divorce? 

One of the first things most people will worry about when it comes to divorce is, what will happen to their finances? This is completely normal and that is where advice will be needed from a solicitor.

Most people who go through a divorce will prefer to be able to talk with their partner about their finances and sort out their finances by agreement. Sometimes the discussions will be to help on partner understand their financial situation, for example if one partner has had primary responsibility for the financial affairs throughout the relationship. 

Equally, it may be that both partners already have a firm grasp of the relationship finances, but they want to talk through what they can do to practically separate their financial affairs. It is possible to do all of this, and more, with the help of your solicitor and whilst still remaining amicable and agreeable with your partner.

What Is The Role Of A Solicitor During A Collaborative Divorce?

The focus is very much on the lawyers helping the separating couple to come to their own negotiated agreement, with legal guidance as and when required.

The major advantage of dealing with any issues collaboratively is that everything can be addressed at the same time – for example if difficulties arise regarding the care of the children either at the outset, or as the process progresses, then this can all be addressed at the same time as financial matters, through the collaborative process. 

With the forthcoming changes to divorce law – where separating spouses will be able to start a non-fault divorce, using the collaborative method is perfectly placed to help separating couples sort out any difficulties coming out of their separation or divorce.

Teresa (Divorce Support)

"Dealt recently with Ellis Hass regarding a matrimonial issue throughout they were very professional and had a calming influence, in a very stressful situation. Straight forward pricing with no hidden costs, the team went above and beyond their profession to keep me informed and up to date, nothing was too much trouble. Everyone is very down to earth and approachable. Would have no hesitation in recommending Ellis Hass & Co Solicitors."

If you think that the collaborative divorce process is the correct solution for you, contact our experienced Family Law Team on 01217463002.