Collaborative Law

Collaborative law is a new non-confrontational approach to resolving issues arising out of family or relationship breakdowns.

It allows couples to work with trained professionals to resolve disputes, by keeping respect for each other and without going to court.

The collaborative law process is based on open, honest and dignified discussions during which you are supported by your own trained collaborative lawyer. We work together in a series of meetings without the threat of court proceedings, to find a fair and mutually acceptable solution.

For collaboration to work both parties must be open and honest. All information must be shared so that when the meetings take place there are no surprises or ambushes. It is ideal for couples who accept their relationship has broken down and want to sort things out, but feel unable to reach agreement just between themselves.

How does collaborative law work

  • Both parties sign an agreement confirming they will not start court proceedings and that they want to go through the collaborative law process. You agree what the objective of the process is (e.g. to sort out money, contact with children etc)
  • Both parties have to agree to be respectful, co-operative and truthful
  • There will be a series of meetings between the parties and their collaborative lawyers, where information is exchanged and negotiations take place
  • You are encouraged to find creative and individual solutions tailored to your own circumstances
  • The agreement reached is written into a settlement agreement which can be submitted to court for approval. 

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Your Family Law Team

Alex Clancy

Partner

Alex began her career as a Family Law Clerk at Watson Woodhouse Solicitors after graduating from Teesside University in 2004. She spent her first year…

Andrea Hewitson

Partner

Andrea is a specialist Family Lawyer with over 30 years’ experience. She undertook her law degree at Northumbria University and went on to study for…

Sarah Bailes

Senior Associate

Sarah began her career as a Legal Clerk after graduating from Teesside University in 2004 with a degree in Forensic Psychology. She then retrained whilst…

Charlotte Brown

Associate

Charlotte joined BHP Law in February 2024 as an Associate Solicitor to help expand the child law aspect of the firm’s growing family team. Charlotte…

Gillian Mitchell

Associate

With over 20 years experience as a Chartered Legal Executive specialising in Family Law, Gillian joined BHP Law's family team in October 2020 bringing…

Nicole Shaw

Trainee Solicitor

Nicole joined BHP Law in January 2023 as a Trainee Solicitor having worked at VCW Law for nearly five years within the Family Department. Nicole commenced…

Esmee Keeper Redshaw

Apprentice Solicitor

Esmée joined BHP Law in September 2024 as a Solicitor Apprentice after successfully completing her A-Levels. Currently, she is part of the Family Law…

Debbie Palmer

Trainee Lawyer

Debbie has been a valued member of BHP Law for over eight years, beginning her journey with the firm in Reception. Her passion for helping others led…

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