Resolving disputes, in a non-confrontational way

Resolution is an organisation that commits family lawyers to resolving disputes in a non-confrontational way.

There is often a lot of hostility when couples separate and so it is important that family lawyers ensure the process is dealt with in a constructive and non-confrontational way whilst encouraging the client to put the child’s interests first and considering the long term consequences of their actions and communications. Often emotions run high so it is important for the lawyers to focus the clients’ mind in reaching agreements and preserving their dignity.

By committing to the membership of Resolution, lawyers adhere to a prescribed Code of Practice to practice in a civilised way and encourage clients to put their differences aside and reach a fair agreement. The principles in the Code have been adopted by the Law Society as recommended good practice for all family lawyers.

In addition to the Code, Resolution also works to raise public awareness and understanding of family law issues. A current campaign for raising awareness is for the one in eight couples that live together in the UK without being married or in a civil partnership. The problem is the limited legal rights that cohabitating partners have upon separation and also the myth that 2 in 3 cohabitating couples believe that there is such a thing as common law marriage. Resolution is not only campaigning to raise awareness in this area but also calls for a new legal framework to recognise these relationships and provide legal protection. >

Helen Clarkson, Associate Solicitor in the family department at Eric Robinson Solicitors is Vice Chair of the regional Young Resolution Committee which also provides training and social events for family lawyers of less than 10 years experience and also offers the platform for members to share their experiences and concerns, ask questions and develop skills and knowledge in a friendly and supportive environment.

At Eric Robinson Solicitors we support this campaign in accordance with the principles of ensuring that the financial aspects of a separation are as fair as they can be.

If you wish to find out more about Resolution or your rights (or lack of) as a cohabitee then please contact one of our family lawyers who would be happy to assist further.