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Peter Jones
Jones Myers Founder
12:26 PM 24th November 2020
family

Is It Possible To Have A ‘Good’ Divorce?

 
The countdown is underway to ‘Good Divorce Week’ which runs from November 30 to December 4 and promotes reducing conflict in relationship breakdowns.

It also seeks to minimise the damage - sometimes long lasting - it can cause to children.

Below is a formula to achieve a ‘good’ divorce which is in the best interests of children, their parents and their wider families.

Always put your children first

The current unprecedented pandemic has further exacerbated the challenges facing estranged couples and parents beset with fears of job losses, concerns over co-parenting and child arrangements, maintenance and financial issues.

Parents are encouraged to keep communication channels open and to devise a parenting plan which boosts trust. Avoid arguing or criticising each other in front of your children and reassure them that your separation is not their fault.

Undergo mediation

This spirit of cooperation extends to undergoing mediation which can help couples resolve their differences and find solutions to move forward positively.

An impartial third party ‘the mediator’ helps them discuss issues confidentially and find workable agreements. With mediation agreements can be reached a great deal more quickly and cost effectively than by using the court process or in solicitors’ correspondence.

Ongoing communication also limits the emotional damage which follows in the wake of an acrimonious battle. Online mediation can be offered in the current climate.

Discuss future financial arrangements

The starting point for divorce is sorting out finances and disclosing assets such as your home, pensions, savings and trusts. Making decisions in the midst of life changing events isn’t easy - especially with the upheaval caused by the current pandemic. Experts will advise and guide you through the process.

Appoint a lawyer who is a Resolution member

Good Divorce Week is organised by Resolution - an organisation of family lawyers and fellow professionals who follow Resolution’s code of practice and are committed to dealing with relationship breakdown issues in a constructive and non-confrontational manner.

Enlist emotional support

Managing the emotional fall out of divorce is crucial with help from counsellors, therapists and support groups.
Reducing trauma, conflict and emotional conflict in the early stages of divorce and separation can pave the way for a more healthy and positive future that will help ensure children’s well being and happiness in the months, years and decades ahead.

During Good Divorce Week many family lawyers are offering 30 minutes of free legal or professional advice to those who need it.