Collaborative law team established in Telford

A new team that aims to take the pain out of divorce has been established by one of Shropshire’s leading law firms.

Solicitor Emma Smith has joined FBC Manby Bowdler Partner Philip Cowell at the firm’s Telford office to offer an enhanced service to couples looking to separate.

Collaborative law is an approach that aims to create a smoother path to divorce with separating couples agreeing through face-to-face negotiations, supported by their solicitor.

Emma and Philip have been specially trained to deliver collaborative law and are members of Resolution, an organisation of 6,500 family lawyers and other professionals in England and Wales, who believe in the constructive, non-confrontational approach to family law matters. They are also both members of the Shropshire Collaborative Lawyers Group.

Emma, who advises on a range of issues including disputes involving children and financial settlements, said: “Collaborative law is a very different experience from the traditional solicitor-led or court process and has a very high success rate of resolving issues.

“It encourages communication, which in turn reduces bad feeling and hostility between the separating couple and is particularly suitable where children are involved. We would urge people, where possible, to consider a collaborative law approach in the first instance.

“It is a more constructive and flexible approach that can produce a far better outcome for all involved,” she added.

In a collaborative law process, both people appoint a lawyer and discussions take place over a series of meetings involving solicitors and their clients. If discussions break down, or one half of the couple opts to go to court, the collaborative process ends.

Couples experiencing difficulties who would like to know more can contact Philip or Emma on 0800 111 6144. For more information go to www.fbcmb.co.uk or go to www.shropshirecollaborativelawyers.co.uk.