Relationship Breakdown

We can assist you in resolving the many complicated matters that can arise when your relationship, marriage, or civil partnership has broken down.  We support our clients in finding the best outcome for them, and in seeking to avoid costly and unnecessary disputes and court proceedings wherever possible.  We offer referrals to mediation and use Collaborative Practice or "No Court" Divorce Agreements when appropriate.  However, our team are also experienced in taking difficult cases to court when it is needed.  We can deal with straightforward cases as well as those that are more difficult or complicated including those involving farms, business partnerships, pensions and investments.  While many of our family clients are based in Mid Devon and the Exeter area, our solicitors also regularly deal with cases much further afield.

Collaborative Practice

There is now a way in which couples can take control of the process of their separation and divorce and avoid going to court whilst working together with trained professionals to resolve the outstanding issues between them.  This is called Collaborative Practice.

How does it work?

• You and your partner each instruct a specialist collaborative family lawyer.
• You both agree with your lawyers to work together as a team and to resolve issues without going to court.
• There is prompt honest and open disclosure of all information.
• Other experts can be enlisted to help as part of the team.
• Settlement is reached in four-way "face to face" meetings (two of you and two lawyers).
• You and your partner remain in control of the process.
• Your lawyers are present to provide support, legal advice and guidance.
• If no settlement can be reached new lawyers will have to be instructed for court proceedings.

Chris Nicholl is a trained Collaborative Practitioner.  For more information see www.collaborativefamilylawyers.co.uk

Contact Chris Nicholl or Natalie Cutting