Resolution Together – what is it and why does it matter?
What is Resolution Together and why does it matter?
Resolution Together is one of the latest models from Resolution and allows family lawyers to work with and advise divorcing couples jointly with legal advice. The parties are still free to seek independent advice and bring other professionals into the process.
Resolution is a community of likeminded family justice professionals who work with families to resolve issues in a constructive way that is non-confrontational. There are over 6,500 members in the UK. Resolution works tirelessly over the UK promoting new and innovative ways to approach family disputes.
In my 12 years of specialising in private family matters, we have been unable to advise both spouses due it being seen as a “conflict of interest” under our Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). We are assured that Resolution have consulted with the SRA and Resolution Together, if undertaken correctly, will not breach our core duties as solicitors.
It is hoped that Resolution Together will further reduce the unnecessary conflict at the end of a marriage or civil partnership.
This new way of resolving family disputes follows the introduction of the “no fault divorce”, which came into force on 6th April 2022. This effectively ended the need to apportion “blame” on one party for the failure of a marriage. It is hoped that Resolution Together will further reduce the unnecessary conflict at the end of a marriage or civil partnership. Whilst it will not be suitable for everyone, it will be suitable for those who wish to work together to end a marriage/relationship in a timely and cost-effective manner.
The guidance provided by Resolution states that both parties need to be emotionally ready to enter the process, have a desire to work together for the benefit of their family, be committed to the process and be full and frank in their financial disclosure. If there are any issues of domestic violence, safeguarding concerns, duress, capacity issues or an imbalance of power, the process will not be suitable.
DISCLAIMER: The information and opinions expressed in this article does not address individual requirements and is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute any form of legal advice and should not be relied on or treated as a substitute for specific advice relevant to your particular circumstances.