Why The Principles of Resolution are Invaluable in Family Law Matters

By Rakhi Singal

Rakhi Singal is Founder, Director and Head of Family Law at RVS Solicitors. Studying at Bournemouth University and BPP Law School, Rakhi quickly gained a profile in the industry for her work. After creating and successfully managing the Family Law & Civil Litigation department at a leading Legal 500 law firm in London, a role that she was headhunted for, she got the idea to create a law firm in her own image. RVS Solicitors was created and has subsequently helped hundreds to achieve their legal goals, start new futures and obtain justice. A highly regarded family lawyer in the UK, Rakhi gained industry recognition for her relentless attitude, negotiation skills and her ability to always stay calm under pressure and provides a high level of expertise, knowledge and service to our clients every day.

The news has been awash with high-profile ongoing divorce battles over recent months.  One factor which unifies all of them is just how toxic and hostile they can become.  The harsh reality is, the longer family law proceedings continue, and the more entrenched positions become, the greater the overall cost – to finances and health.

But is there a better way?  After all, what is the point of fighting for marital assets, only to lose them to fund the legal action taken to win them?

Solicitors who belong to Resolution have a framework to avoid such a situation occurring.

Who are Resolution?

Resolution encompasses 6,500 family Solicitors and other law professionals who adopt a non-confrontational approach to helping families resolve legal disputes.  The Resolution organisation provide resources, training and accreditation to these practitioners, ensuring each is empowered with the latest knowledge and skills to achieve the best results for their clients.  A centre tenet of Resolution’s approach is that the needs of both parties and those of the children are considered.

The Resolution Code of Practice

All Resolution members follow a Code of Conduct which defines how they will work with clients – this ensures that no matter which member you choose, each will act in accordance with the principles, including to:

• Minimise conflict and confrontation.
• Put the needs of children front and centre.
• Act with honesty, integrity and objectivity.
• Help clients understand the long-term financial and emotional consequences of their decisions.
• Always respect and not judge clients’ opinions and wishes
• Help clients understand their options

In which situations can Resolution principles assist?

Resolution assist families with a range of matters including:

• Divorce: Resolution members can offer specialist guidance relating to arrangements for children, financial settlements, and living arrangements (e.g. what options there are for the family home)
• Co-habiting: Members can help guide you through all the legal considerations you need to make when living together. Couples in co-habiting arrangements do not have the same legal and financial protections as those who are married or in civil partnerships.  We will explain your options and help you draft and agree on a Cohabitation Agreement to protect your interests.
• Parenting after separation: If you have separated from your partner with whom you had children, we understand the emotions and practical implications this can bring, for all concerned. Resolution members are trained and experienced in how to help parents overcome difficulties in such situations.  They help them work towards a more co-operative arrangement for the future – for the good of all concerned, including children, parents, and grandparents.
• Domestic abuse: Resolution members are here to assist when you need it the most. For anyone suffering any level of domestic abuse, or other forms such as female genital mutilation and honour-based violence, we can assist you today.  If you are in any immediate danger, please contact 999 for the police or you can reach Refuge 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247 or email helpline@refuge.org.uk.

Protecting the long-term interests of your children

Most parents are acutely aware of the traumatic impact of family discord on their children.  The government is currently consulting on potential changes to introduce ‘no-fault’ divorces, in large part due to the acknowledgement that apportioning blame during the divorce process can lead to acrimony, and as a result harm the mental health of children.

While removing blame will undoubtedly reduce the toxic acrimony seen in many divorces, this will not necessarily insulate children from the overall impact of such a family change.  It is important to remember Children suffer for many reasons, whether hearing and seeing their parents arguing, living between different homes, the introduction of new spouses and their families, or having to move schools.

Regardless of the outcome of the government consultation on no-fault divorce, those experiencing a family dispute will benefit considerably from working with a Resolution practitioner.  Not only will the children involved avoid the immediate and long-term turmoil, but both parties will also be able to find an amicable and fair solution which has the best chance of succeeding in the long-term.  Additionally, because the aim of Resolution members is to resolve family disputes quickly, with minimum correspondence between Solicitors and allowing parties to reach agreement between themselves, peacefully and respectfully, any costs associated with the process will be kept to a minimum, reducing financial pressure.

Contact our Family Law Solicitors in London

It can be difficult to know who to trust when you are the most vulnerable.  By seeking a Solicitor who is a member of Resolution, you can relax in the knowledge that they will help you protect the best interests and those of your children in a non-acrimonious manner.  The methods which Resolution use are highly effective, and regardless of the complexity or stage of your matter.  And should robust decision need to be made, you can be assured a Resolution member will act quickly and decisively and is always on your side.

Our specialist family Solicitors are able to advise and support you through any family law matter.  Call us on 020 7841 1081 or contact us online.