Good divorce week 2020 starts on Monday 30th December. This is an annual campaign that aims to promote practical and constructive ways for separating parents to put the needs of their children first. Organised by Resolution, a community of more than 6,500 family justice professionals, this year the campaign focuses around the benefits of early legal advice. Resolution members (I am one) believe the process of separating, sorting out finances and arranging childcare should be done in a way that minimises conflict and keeps the best interests of any children at the heart.
I will be sharing my experiences of how couples facing divorce and separation may separate in a better way on my social media channels. However, I’ve questioned this year whether heading it ‘good divorce’ week will alienate those who are thick in the trauma of a divorce and the real sense of loss which often accompanies the process and grief experienced. Does the use of the term ‘good divorce’ feel right?
Divorce is never easy. It brings with it unimaginable pain, trauma and loss. So, divorce is rarely considered good although it can bring relief for those who have been in abusive relationships or are generally unhappy. I am firmly of the view that on the whole, people can separate and divorce in a better way. Never easy but it is possible for those who really want to take responsibility to find an outcome which works for the whole family and puts the children at the centre of any decision making. The family law community are making strides to really get the message out that each and every family is bespoke and there are a number of different professionals and range of options as to how you can separate respectfully and peacefully. Mediation is of course one of those options where you can find an emotionally supportive approach but I also regularly consider with my clients the full range of processes which are available to best meet their needs. It really is possible, with the right professional guidance and commitment to achieve a ‘better way.’
