Most divorcing couples trying to agree a financial settlement on divorce want to avoid a court process, as this this can be an expensive, acrimonious and protracted process. However, people can feel out of their depth trying to negotiate a settlement for one or more of a number of reasons, for example:
- They are unlikely to be fully conversant with the rules for distributing assets and pensions or for determining whether spousal maintenance is necessary. These are not black and white; there are many grey areas.
- One person may have far more knowledge and understanding of the assets than the other and this can create a power imbalance, leaving the other feeling exposed and vulnerable.
- Their respective perceptions of fairness may differ considerably through the lens of a relationship breakdown, in which emotions often run high.
- Their finances may not be straight forward and they require the assistance of experts to understand the value of assets such as private companies, trust interests, complex income structures and the potential tax implications of a financial settlement.
Specialist Family Solicitors
Instructing a solicitor to guide you through this process does not mean that you intend to go to court. Much of our work as family lawyers involves solicitor-led negotiations with a view to reaching a settlement on behalf of our clients without requiring a court timetable to reach a resolution. These can take several forms:
- Round table meetings on a “without prejudice” basis to narrow the issues and explore proposals for settlement
- Negotiations through solicitors’ correspondence
- Supporting and advising clients through a non-court dispute resolution process, such as Early Neutral Evaluation or mediation.
Our solicitors have considerable experience in negotiating financial settlements on behalf of our clients, get in touch with a specialist member of our family law team for more advice and guidance.
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About Ellis Jones
Our team of specialist solicitors take a personal approach to working with our clients to help provide constant support and understanding throughout the process. Learn more about us and our approach to what we do.
Learn MoreAbout Ellis Jones
Our team of specialist solicitors take a personal approach to working with our clients to help provide constant support and understanding throughout the process. Learn more about us and our approach to what we do.
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