02 Jun Can one solicitor represent or advise both parties jointly in a divorce?
For many couples facing a relationship breakdown, the traditional model of one solicitor for each party is still the right choice. But more couples are asking us to advise on the legal aspects of their separation, divorce or dissolution as a couple. In this instance there is another option – the One Couple, One Lawyer approach to separating.
This approach allows one solicitor to advise both of you jointly through divorce, civil partnership dissolution or separation, helping you work towards a fair outcome on finances, property and arrangements for the children.
For the right couple, it can be a constructive, cost-conscious and less adversarial way to move forward.
Roger Weller is an experienced family law solicitor who is trained to practice the Resolution Together approach to One Couple, One Lawyer divorce. Here he answers the most frequently asked questions on the topic.
What is the Resolution Together approach to One Couple One Lawyer?
Resolution Together is the best practice process for lawyers providing the One Couple One Lawyer approach. It has been produced by the Family Law Group Resolution, which promotes a code of practice for constructive and non-confrontational dispute resolution.
This is different from mediation. In mediation, the mediator stays neutral and does not give legal advice to either of you. In the Resolution Together model, the solicitor gives joint legal advice to both parties throughout the process.
Imagine a couple who have decided to separate after many years together. They agree that the marriage is over. They want to keep matters civil. They want to sort out the family home, savings and pensions fairly. Most of all, they want to protect their children from unnecessary conflict.
In a traditional legal process, each might instruct a separate solicitor from the outset. That may still be the right decision in some cases.
But where both remain open, respectful and committed to agreement, a joint legal advice model may feel more in keeping with the way they want to handle the separation. Instead of receiving advice in separate rooms and communicating through letters, they sit down together, receive the same legal guidance, and work through the issues step by step.
Why are more couples considering the One Couple, One Solicitor approach?
The growth of no-fault divorce in England and Wales has changed the way many people think about separation. Since the introduction of no-fault divorce in April 2022 under the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, couples no longer need to blame one another for the breakdown of the marriage or rely on a period of separation. A divorce can now be approached in a more practical and less confrontational way. The law also allows either or both parties to apply for a divorce order.
That change has made space for more constructive forms of legal support. If the law no longer requires one spouse to make allegations against the other, some couples naturally ask whether they also need to start the legal process from opposing positions. For couples who remain able to work together, the answer may be no.
Is a One Couple, One Lawyer divorce a good idea?
Recent research suggests that this model can work well in the right circumstances.
Dr Rachael Blakey’s 2025 research from the University of Warwick is described as the first empirical, exploratory study of the one-lawyer-two-clients format in England and Wales. The study found that joint representation can be a highly effective, cost-efficient and constructive option for separating couples who are committed to reaching agreement without litigation.
The research also suggests that the solicitor’s role changes in this setting. Rather than acting as a traditional adversary for one side, the solicitor works more as a joint legal adviser to the couple and evaluator to them, helping both parties understand their options and move towards a fair settlement.
How does the Resolution Together process work?
For couples who are suitable for the process, the steps are usually clear and structured.
1. Initial screening and suitability
The first step is to consider whether the process is appropriate. Resolution Together usually works best where both people are on reasonably amicable terms, are willing to be open about their finances, and genuinely want to reach a fair agreement.
2. Joint meetings with one solicitor
If the process is suitable, both of you meet with one solicitor together. You hear the same legal advice at the same time, which can reduce confusion and help avoid the misunderstandings that sometimes arise when advice is given separately.
3. Full and frank financial disclosure
Openness is essential. Both parties need to give full and accurate information about income, savings, pensions, property, debts and other assets. This is what family lawyers mean by full and frank financial disclosure.
4. Working through the issues
Once the relevant information is available, the solicitor helps both of you work through the issues that need to be resolved. These often include:
- The divorce or dissolution process itself
- Financial arrangements
- The family home and other property
- Pensions and savings
- Child arrangements
- How agreements should be recorded
5. Formalising the agreement
If agreement is reached, the next step is to turn that agreement into the right legal documents. For finances, this will involve a Financial Consent Order, which is sent to the court for approval so that the settlement becomes legally binding.
What are the benefits of amicable divorce using one solicitor?
The One Couple, One Lawyer approach can offer clear practical benefits. Receiving joint legal advice can reduce misunderstanding, keep discussions focused and help couples make progress more efficiently. It may also be more cost-effective than instructing two separate solicitors. Where children are involved, a constructive process can support better communication for the future.
Is one couple, one solicitor right for every divorce?
No. This is an important alternative, but it is not a replacement for traditional legal representation.
It is unlikely to be suitable where there is, domestic abuse, coercive or controlling behaviour, a serious power imbalance, non-disclosure of finances, significant mistrust or a level of conflict that prevents open discussion.
If the process stops being suitable, the joint retainer will usually need to end. In those circumstances, the joint solicitor would not usually continue to act for either of you in the same matter.
If you would like to discuss whether the Resolution Together approach is suitable for your circumstances, contact HRJ Foreman Laws Solicitors to arrange an initial consultation.
For more information:
- Amicable Divorce – The One Couple, One Lawyer Approach
- Matrimonial finances – securing fair divorce settlements
- What happens during the divorce process?
- Video – Collaborative law and when to use it.
For legal advice:
- Email info@hrjforemanlaws.co.uk
- Call Hitchin, 01462 458711, Welwyn Garden City, 01707 887700, Old Harlow 01279 709 100.
- Complete our contact form here