The Ethos of the Firm

How we add value

From the moment you walk through the door, you will experience the difference. Soothing music is playing; a cafetiere of coffee will be served to you - is this normal in Solicitors' offices? Of course not. This firm is different.

We do more than deal with warring parties fighting over the children and the family coffers. We are not here to go through the motions of pushing settlement of the finances, leaving other aspects unfinished. Divorce is a life changing experience. You will have good days and bad days. We want to help you ensure your life change is for the better; to make a difference to the whole family; to do the best job we can and help you move on in a positive way.

Whilst working within the Court process, we also work behind the scenes towards an early negotiated settlement. We aim to advise, negotiate and conduct matters to help the family settle differences and reach agreement as quickly as possible, whilst allowing time to reflect, consider and come to terms with the new situation. We take a holistic approach. We encourage contact with counsellors and life coaches, where appropriate.

Remember the dos

• Where there are children, the parties must retain a civil relationship.
• Agreement is more important than victory.
• A minor concession may help to develop the parties' relationship and secure settlement.
• Make offers and develop negotiation rather than make threats and refuse to negotiate.
• There are always very many ways to react to any situation - never only one.
• Agreement is the goal; both sides must feel satisfied to reach a workable settlement.

And the don'ts

• Make unfair, unreasonable and unrealistic demands.
• Point score.
• Use emotional blackmail.
• Use the children.
• Make threats or be abusive.

The cost of divorce is not just financial. It is often emotional. We strive to achieve a dignified, co-operative outcome, best for you and your children. Such a result will have a long lasting effect on you, your children and the future relationships enjoyed by you all.

What we do

• Seek a dignified outcome based on effective communication.
• Rapidly generate viable options for settlement to achieve a fair result.
• Encourage a constructive and conciliatory approach to the resolution of disputes.
• Narrow issues in dispute and therefore their effective and timely resolution.
• Minimise upset to all parties, including the children.
• Endeavour to ensure costs are not unreasonably incurred.
• Always consider the principle of proportionality.