FAMILY LAW TEAM BOOSTS COMMITMENT TO DISPUTE LITIGATION ALTERNATIVE

Manchester solicitors Clarke Willmott LLP has expanded its expertise in helping separating families avoid litigation in family disputes.

Emily Barcilon, a solicitor in the firm’s Divorce and Family Law team, has completed Collaborative Training with Resolution, an association of over 6,500 family justice professionals in England and Wales, who believe in a constructive, non-confrontational approach to family matters.

Emily is now a qualified Collaborative Practitioner and an active member of the Resolution group in the North West.

“Unlike any other aspect of law, dealing with issues of divorce, family finance and children, requires a unique approach,” said Emily.

Resolution is working to raise awareness of the benefits of taking a less adversarial approach to family law matters. In collaborate law, instead of going to court, lawyers and their clients seek to work collectively, resulting in better outcomes for families and children.

“The process enables parties to resolve matters between themselves, on their terms and within their own timeframe, and also to build a strong foundation of respect and communication that may form a base from which to resolve things as amicably as possible.”

Throughout the process, consultations between clients and lawyers take place by two or four-way meetings. The advice of other experts, such as financial advisors and family consultants, can be included in the process where needed.

“The collaborative process is not necessarily easy for individuals who choose it, but it allows those who have a shared commitment to avoid litigation to move forwards with a fair and equitable settlement in a dignified and respectful way.”

“We do have to screen for suitable cases – for instance, it wouldn’t work for couples who have never been able to communicate over issues during their relationship, or where there is or has been any form of domestic abuse,” added Emily.

“Both parties have to be committed to resolving issues by the collaborative process and if they are not, then it is unlikely to be effective.”

Resolution is the largest membership organisation for family justice professionals, working from branches all over the country.

Supporting members who are starting out on their career path, resolution has developed ‘YRes’, regional groups open to members with up to 10 years post qualification experience. YRes ensures junior family law members are able to strengthen their professional relationships, explore a constructive approach to family law issues, and also acts as a forum to develop skills and knowledge in a friendly and supportive environment.

Emily Barcilon is the YRes Manchester dedicated social media representative, and has extensive experience working on financial matters in divorce, including high net worth matters involving complex business interests.

Clarke Willmott LLP is a national law firm with seven offices across the country in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.