TAYLOR&EMMET BACKS RESOLUTION BID FOR LEGAL AID

Sheffield’s Taylor&Emmet Solicitors is backing calls from Resolution for legal aid to be made available to divorcing couples wishing to use the collaborative law process.

Michaela Heathcote, a leading family law expert at Taylor&Emmet, welcomes moves by Resolution to enable poorer couples to take advantage of collaborative practices.

Michaela, who is an accredited Resolution specialist and a recognised collaborative lawyer, said: “Since its introduction into the UK in 2003, collaborative law has helped many divorcing couples reach agreements far faster than would have been possible through the courts. By making legal aid available to clients willing to commit to the collaborative process would, in the long run, prove far more cost-effective for the public purse.”

Resolution is a national body committed to the promotion of collaborative law, which helps couples achieve fair divorce settlements through negotiation and meetings, rather than the courts. The organisation claims poorer families are denied the opportunity to use the this process because of a lack of state funding, despite its proven success rate and the pressure it takes off the legal system.

Michaela added: “At Taylor&Emmet we are committed to helping reduce the anxiety and stress associated with divorce by using the collaborative process. We are, however, also committed to the continued provision of legal aid and we believe it would be a great step forward for the industry and the welfare of our clients if the two services could be brought together.

“Resolution believes that there is no reason why the existing legal aid structure could not be adapted to include collaborative law and taking into consideration the research it has conducted and our own experience, we are inclined to agree.”

For further information about collaborative law, contact Michaela Heathcote at Taylor&Emmet on (0114) 218 4000 or visit www.tayloremmet.co.uk

PICTURE CAPTION: Michaela Heathcote,Taylor&Emmet's accredited Resolution specialist and collaborative lawyer.

Issued: 6.3.2009

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