Separating and divorcing can be an extremely stressful and upsetting time for everyone involved but with services such as Family Mediation and Collaborative Law the stress can be somewhat alleviated. The One Lawyer model is one more way for separating and divorcing couples to achieve an amicable outcome in a fair way that avoids the lengthy, costly, and stressful alternative of court.
What is the One Lawyer Model?
With the One Lawyer model, separating or divorcing couples instruct a single neutral legal professional (usually a solicitor) to advise them jointly, with the aim of working together to sort out their financial and/or child arrangements. It is therefore a fantastic option for couples, who faced with separation, simply want to work things out together in a fair way and need some specialist advice on how to get there.
With only one solicitor involved, the One Lawyer Model differs from the traditional approach whereby which each individual instructs their own solicitor to advise them. As a result, the One Lawyer approach often ends up being more cost and time effective.
How Does the One Lawyer Model Work?
There are five key steps to the One Lawyer model. These are illustrated below. For more information on each step click here.
Is the One Lawyer Model Suitable for Me?
The One Lawyer Model is well-suited to couples who wish to work together constructively to reach a fair outcome. An important feature of the model is that both individuals must understand and agree that one lawyer will be advising them jointly. Some individuals may understandably prefer to instruct their own solicitor and receive confidential advice to enable them to negotiate.
Due to the emphasis on working together, this model is not usually appropriate where there is has been any form of domestic abuse within the relationship or where there is a significant power imbalance. This model is also not appropriate if there are concerns that one individual may ‘hide’ information about their finances; transparency and mutual trust is key to this model working well.
It is possible to use the One Lawyer Model even where the family finances are complex. In these cases, the solicitor will help the couple identify and bring in appropriate outside advice as needed, for example in relation to pensions, valuations, and tax issues.
Whilst a jointly instructed neutral solicitor will be a great option for some couples, it may not be the right process for others. This is why at the beginning of the process, the solicitor will discuss the process carefully with each person in an individual meeting before proceeding to help identity the key issues and understand whether it is the right choice for both individuals.
If it is felt the model isn’t the right fit, the lawyer will explore alternative processes.
How is the One Lawyer Model Different to Mediation?
The One Lawyer model is often compared to mediation, as both involve a separating or divorcing couple working with one professional to reach an agreement regarding finances and/or child arrangements. The main difference is the role of the professional. In mediation, the mediator can give information to support and assist the couple, but cannot provide advice. If the couple require further support, they may both instruct their own lawyers to advise individually and confidentially between mediation sessions. In contrast, in the One Lawyer model, the solicitor is specifically instructed by the couple to give them legal advice on a joint basis. This removes the need for the involvement of multiple legal professionals.
How do I get started with the One Lawyer Model?
If you and your ex-spouse/partner are interested in the One Lawyer model to resolve your finances or arrangements for your children, the first step will be to have an initial suitability assessment with a legal professional who is specially trained to conduct the One Lawyer model. At Thornton Jones Shelley Wales is a specialist family solicitor trained and experienced in working with couples on a joint basis. To learn more, please contact our family team using the details below.
This practice is sometimes referred to as “one couple one lawyer”. While a solicitor cannot represent both parties if there are conflicting interests, a couple with aligned goals seeking a fair, amicable settlement in terms of dividing their finances can indeed share the same solicitor, thus avoiding the need for court proceedings.
Meet Your One Lawyer Specialist
Shelley Wales qualified as a solicitor in 2001 and is a Partner and Head of Family Dispute Resolution here at Thornton Jones Solicitors. Shelley is a qualified Family Mediator and One Lawyer service provider.
Shelley’s warm and calm demeanour helps couples who are separating and divorcing reach fair and amicable outcomes, offering reasonable and pragmatic solutions to both children and financial matters, Shelley has a wealth of experience in achieving long lasting results.
What are the benefits of the One Lawyer Model?
Cost-effective: Using a single solicitor can significantly reduce the cost of divorce or dissolution when considering the financial division. Instead of each party hiring their own solicitor and incurring double the fees, a single solicitor can handle the case for both parties, making the process more affordable.
Efficient process: A single solicitor divorce or dissolution can expedite the process by eliminating the need for back-and-forth communication between separate legal representatives. With one solicitor managing the case, couples can resolve issues more quickly and move forward with their lives sooner.
Reduced conflict: The single solicitor approach fosters a cooperative environment, focusing on negotiation and mutual agreement rather than adversarial tactics. This can help reduce conflict and maintain a more amicable relationship between the parties, which is especially important when children are involved. It allows for more flexibility in the process and access to therapeutic support if needed.
Consistent advice: A single solicitor provides consistent legal advice to both parties, ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of their rights and obligations. This consistency can help prevent misunderstandings and disagreements, leading to a smoother divorce or dissolution process and division of the finances.
Tailored solutions: By working with one solicitor, couples can develop tailored solutions that address their specific needs and circumstances. The solicitor can help craft agreements that are fair and balanced, ensuring that both parties are satisfied with the outcome.
NEWS: Resolution reveals innovative new model to help couples divorce amicably with just one lawyer.
Find out more about this innovative new model launched by the family justice body, Resolution. A new way of working that allows lawyers to work with and advise couples jointly, including providing appropriate legal advice, through a divorce or separation… Read more…
How does the One Lawyer Model Work?
Initial consultation: The process begins with an initial consultation where the solicitor meets with both parties individually to discuss their situation and ensure they are both ready to undertake the process emotionally. It is also an opportunity to ask any questions and explain the single solicitor divorce our dissolution process. Within the meeting, each person’s commitment statement is discussed too. These meetings help determine if this approach is suitable for the couple and outlines the benefits and limitations.
Agreement to proceed: If both parties agree to proceed with a single solicitor for divorce or dissolution, and we agree it is suitable, then a joint meeting is arranged. At this meeting, the couple will review their commitment statements, align their aims and create an agenda to work through; which then forms the basis of the sessions.
Discussion and negotiation: The solicitor will facilitate discussions between the parties, helping them identify and negotiate key issues such as asset division, child arrangements, and spousal support. The solicitor’s role is to facilitate these discussions and ensure that both parties have a voice and that their concerns are addressed.
Drafting the agreement: Once the parties have reached an agreement on all key issues, the solicitor will draft a financial consent order which records in legal language the agreement reached. This document outlines the terms of the divorce and financial division, including child’s arrangements, and any support obligations. Both parties will review the agreement to ensure it accurately reflects their understanding.
Submission to Court: Once both parties are satisfied with the agreement, the solicitor will file the necessary paperwork with the court to finalise the divorce and division of the finances. A judge will then review the documentation.
Is a Single Solicitor Divorce or Dissolution Right for You?
A single solicitor in divorce or dissolution is best suited for couples who are amicable, willing to cooperate, and committed to reaching a fair agreement. It is ideal for:
- Amicable separations: Couples who have mutually agreed to separate and maintain a respectful relationship.
- Clear communication: Couples who can communicate openly and honestly about their needs and concerns.
- No significant power imbalances: Couples where there are no significant power imbalances, ensuring that both parties can negotiate on equal footing.
- Common goals: Couples who share common goals, such as prioritising the well-being of their children or maintaining a cordial relationship post-divorce or dissolution.
- Neutral and fair: As single solicitors for divorce or dissolution, we are committed to acting as neutral facilitators, ensuring that both parties are heard and that their interests are considered. We strive to create balanced agreements that are fair to both parties.
- Transparent fees: We offer clear and transparent fee structures, ensuring that you understand the costs involved from the outset. Using a single solicitor for divorce or dissolution can significantly reduce your legal expenses, making the process more affordable.
Common Questions Relating to the One Lawyer Model
Can you use the same solicitor for a divorce in the UK?
The One Lawyer model is an initiative designed to connect individuals with a single legal professional who will manage all aspects of their separation. It aims to streamline the legal process by providing a dedicated lawyer who can offer joint advice, ensuring continuity and efficiency throughout the case.
Can I use the One Lawyer Model?
Proceeding with the One Lawyer model typically depends on specific criteria. Generally, it may be suitable for separating couples in relation to financial matters and/or child arrangements following on from their separation.
Can I switch or change solicitors during the course of my case under the One Lawyer Model?
In most cases, you can request to switch lawyers if you feel your needs are not being met or if there is a conflict of interest. However, it’s important to discuss this with the solicitor as soon as possible to understand the process and any potential implications for your case. If you’re considering switching solicitors, you may also want to consider any additional costs or delays this might cause, especially if you’re working under a time-sensitive legal matter.
What types of cases are suitable for the One Lawyer Model?
The One Lawyer Scheme is most effective for cases that require consistent and ongoing legal support. It is commonly used for family law matters, such as divorce, finances or child arrangement disputes. Complex cases where multiple legal issues need to be managed simultaneously can also benefit from this approach. If you’re unsure whether your issue is suitable, it’s best to speak with the legal provider directly to determine if this approach is appropriate for your needs.
How much does the One Lawyer Model cost?
The cost of participating in the One Lawyer model can vary, depending on the matters which need resolving and the complexity. The trained expert lawyer will be able to provide fee information at the initial separate meeting.
How does the One Lawyer Model benefit clients?
Separating couples benefit from the One Lawyer model by having one single dedicated legal expert who understands the specifics of their case, leading to more consistent and informed joint advice. This helps improve communication, reduces confusion, and often results in a faster resolution of legal matters.
Get started with One Lawyer today
If you and your partner are considering divorce or dissolution and are interested in exploring the option of a single solicitor for divorce or dissolution, we invite you to contact us for a consultation. Shelley Wales is an experienced family law solicitor and can help you understand your options and determine if this approach is the right approach for you.
We are here to support you every step of the way, providing expert guidance.
Get in touch with our Family Law specialists in Yorkshire
Speak to our family law solicitors in Wakefield, Ossett, Garforth, and Sherburn in Elmet, Yorkshire today by calling 01924 290 029 or ask a question using our online enquiry form.
Contact Us
☎️ Call our Wakefield office on 01924 290 029
☎️ Call our Garforth office on 0113 246 4423
☎️ Call our Sherburn in Elmet office on 01977 350 500
☎️ Call our Ossett office on 01924 586 466
