Good Divorce Week: What is it and why does it matter?

Resolution is an organisation made up of family lawyers and other professionals who promote a non-confrontational approach to resolving family issues, including all issues arising on divorce. Resolution members aim to provide solutions which limit the impact of relationship breakdown on both the parties and, importantly, any children.

What is a ‘good divorce’

A ‘good divorce’ may seem like a strange concept when for many divorce still has a negative stigma attached to it. However, a good divorce is not about ignoring the fact that separation can be incredibly tough on families and it is certainly not about encouraging divorce. It is about acknowledging that there are different ways to manage the process of divorce and how all involved move forward to a new future. It doesn’t have to be the stereotypical ‘battle’ that is so often portrayed and there are better ways to divorce. With the right advice and support, it is possible to get to a place where a couple can look back on a good divorce. One where the negative impacts are minimised, conflict is reduced and people move forward positively with their lives.

When you instruct a solicitor who is a Resolution member they are committed to following the Resolution Code of Practice which means they will always strive to:

• Reduce or manage any conflict and confrontation; for example, by not using inflammatory language.
• Support and encourage families to put the best interests of any children first.
• Act with honesty, integrity and objectivity.
• Help clients understand and manage the potential long-term financial and emotional consequences of decisions.
• Listen to and treat everyone with respect and without judgment.
• Use experience and knowledge to guide clients through the options available to them.
• Continually develop knowledge and skills.

Paul Linsell, the head of our Family Law team, is a committed Resolution member, accredited specialist, Resolution trained mediator and is vice chair of the Berkshire & Buckinghamshire region’s Resolution committee.

Why is Good Divorce Week so important?

The impact of divorce can be life-changing and, if it isn’t approached correctly, the negative impact can last a lifetime; both for the couple involved and the wider family. Campaigns such as Good Divorce Week help raise awareness about how to minimise the negative impact, focus on positive steps and help all involved. It helps inform people about the support that is available and highlights the better ways available, such as non-court options for resolving disputes that may arise on divorce.

The focus for Good Divorce Week 2021 is to help families adopt a child-focused approach to a divorce. The difference this can make is significant. When parents learn to work together to support their children, this leads to outcomes that are better not only for children, but also for parents themselves.

A fantastic place to start with this is to familiarise yourself with Resolution’s “Parenting Through Separation” guide which is a resource aimed at helping parents to achieve a constructive approach through separation; putting their children first. The guide is free during Good Divorce Week and can be accessed here.

Boyes Turner is committed to supporting Good Divorce Week and to supporting people have a good divorce. We will take the time to understand the needs of you and your family. We help people from every walk of life, so no matter how complex your circumstances might be and no matter what your goals, we will be able to assist in helping you towards a good divorce. If you are going through a divorce, contemplating a separation or would like to know more then please contact a member of our specialist family law team for a free, no obligation initial discussion.