There are many ways in which you can resolve your family law matter. Court is not always inevitable.
We are committed to discuss all process options with you so that you can decide what is best for you and your family. Some process options are:
Mediation
Where both you and your partner attend mediation sessions with one trained neutral mediator who will try to find a solution to your dispute. Mediation tends to suit low conflict couples where there is no history of aggressive behaviour and there are no power imbalances. If you agree a settlement at mediation you will still require a lawyer’s input to make your agreement legally binding.
Collaborative Practice
Is recommended for most couples as even if there is a power imbalance the trained collaborative lawyers will redress that. The lawyers work together, not against one another in the interests of you, your partner or spouse and your children. Collaborative practice also brings other professionals such as divorce coaches and financial specialists who assist the process.
Both you and your partner/ spouse attend face to face meetings with your collaborative lawyers and other collaborative professionals as required. Collaborative practice recognises that separation and divorce is difficult but with the right support you can separate with dignity. A collaborative case requires commitment from you, however its benefits are that it is relatively fast, confidential and most likely to achieve a lasting settlement that you are happy with.
Arbitration
Arbitration is an adversarial process. It is similar to court however its advantages are that you get to choose your own private judge and it is fast, efficient and private.
Cath Karlin is a trained arbitrator (private judge) and is also able to represent you in arbitrations.
Contact
Cath Karlin
Partner, Edinburgh