News

Credit crunch points the way for separating couples to take the collaborative route

Release date: 09/10/2008

As the impact of the credit crunch bites, more and more separating couples are turning to specialist family lawyers in a bid to reach speedier, informal agreements and avoid costly court time.

Family disputes inevitably involve financial and emotional costs. But with the help of a specialist experienced in dispute resolution, long-winded legal battles can be avoided.

Collaborative lawyer, Katherine Marshall says there must be a determination on both sides to get matters resolved as smoothly as possible.

She says: "There are a number of options available including round table negotiations and specially-tailored collaborative agreements. Round table negotiations are particularly effective in dealing with resolving financial claims and children issues.

"Collaborative Law, when both parties agree to try to reach a settlement without going to court, is very effective for resolving family matters. This route hinges on openness and honesty, but it is particularly effective in producing quick, personally-tailored and cost-effective agreements.

"The key incentive is to achieve a solution without having one imposed by the court."

Of course prevention is far better than cure and the best way to avoid disputes is to nail down clear agreements before disputes arise.

For individuals this includes looking at everything from wills, to co-habitee agreements or pre-nuptial agreements. Family-owned businesses can safeguard their position with custom-made and clear agreements, the proper incorporation of contracts, agreements and the protection of intellectual property rights.

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