Resolution For Family Law

When people first contact our family law solicitors at Birch & Co, they are often dealing with one of the most difficult situations of their lives. Whether it is a divorce, a dispute about finances, or a disagreement over arrangements for children, the process can feel overwhelming, and the prospect of legal proceedings makes it more so. One of the first things we tell clients is that going to court is rarely the only option, and frequently not the best one. That philosophy sits at the heart of what we do, and it connects directly to our membership of Resolution for family law, an organisation that has shaped how responsible, client-focused family lawyers like us work.

Reach out to Birch & Co’s specialist and supportive team today. Call us on 0191 284 5030 or complete a Free Online Enquiry now to get a bespoke fixed price estimate.

“Not in any way intimidating. Their positive attitude takes the stress out of situations.” (Ms Scott)

What Is Resolution?

Resolution is the largest membership organisation for family justice professionals in England and Wales, representing over 6,500 practitioners, including solicitors, barristers, legal executives, financial advisers, and family therapists. It was formerly known as the Solicitors Family Law Association and has spent decades working towards a more constructive approach to family law, not only within the courts, but at government level through active lobbying for a fairer family justice system.

Membership of Resolution is not automatic or passive. Practitioners who join commit to working in accordance with Resolution’s Code of Practice, which sets out specific standards for how family law matters should be handled. The Code promotes a non-confrontational approach and requires members to treat everyone involved with respect, to give honest and clear advice, and to help clients focus on long-term outcomes rather than short-term wins. Where children are involved, Resolution members are required to keep their best interests at the forefront of all decisions.

What Our Membership Means In Practice

We have been members of Resolution for a number of years, and our approach as a firm reflects everything the organisation stands for. With 30 years of experience in family law, we understand that what clients need is clear, honest advice delivered with genuine sensitivity.

In practical terms, our Resolution membership means that when you come to us, we are not looking to escalate conflict or prolong proceedings. We look at what can be agreed at an early stage, work to identify and narrow the real issues in dispute, and advise you honestly about the options available. That approach saves time, reduces cost, and significantly reduces stress, all of which matter enormously in family proceedings. We can help with everything from divorce and financial settlements to child arrangements, cohabitation disputes and injunctions. In every case, our starting point is finding the least adversarial route to a resolution that works for everyone involved.

Early Resolution And Mediation

Where possible, we look to resolve matters through early discussions between solicitors. In many cases, identifying at the outset what the parties agree on, and what they do not, is enough to open a dialogue that leads to a settlement without court involvement becoming necessary.

If direct negotiations do not produce an agreement, mediation is usually the next step. Before making most applications to the family court in England and Wales, parties are legally required to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting, known as a MIAM. This is a meeting with an accredited family mediator who assesses whether mediation is a suitable option given the specific circumstances of the case.

Mediation itself involves a neutral third party helping both parties reach their own agreement. The mediator does not make decisions; they facilitate constructive conversation. It tends to be quicker, less expensive, and considerably less adversarial than court proceedings, and it can be particularly valuable where the parties need to maintain some form of ongoing relationship, as parents, for example. We can help you prepare for both the MIAM and the mediation process itself, ensuring you have a clear understanding of your legal position and what you want to achieve before you attend.

Arbitration As An Alternative To Court

When mediation does not resolve matters, arbitration is an option that is often underutilised but well worth considering seriously. In family law arbitration, both parties agree to appoint an arbitrator, or one is appointed by the Institute of Family Law Arbitrators, who makes a binding decision on the issues in dispute. Arbitrators are experts in family law, typically practising solicitors or barristers, and some are already appointed as Deputy District Judges in the Family Court. They bring the same depth of legal knowledge and decision-making authority as a judge, but the process is considerably more flexible.

Court proceedings in family matters can take a year or more to conclude. Arbitration can often be resolved in a fraction of that time and at substantially lower cost. For clients who want a definitive outcome without the delay, uncertainty and expense of litigation, it is an option we recommend where it is appropriate, and we can guide you through the process from start to finish.

When Court Is Unavoidable

There are cases where court proceedings are unavoidable, whether because an agreement genuinely cannot be reached, because urgent protective orders are needed, or because the complexity of the matter requires a judicial determination. In those circumstances, we will guide you through every stage of the process. The court’s own procedure is designed to encourage openness and cooperation between parties, with the emphasis on settlement rather than a full contested hearing wherever possible. We will prepare you thoroughly, advise you at every step, and represent your interests robustly throughout.

Family law touches on the most significant aspects of people’s lives, and the quality of the legal support you receive makes a real difference. Whether your matter is at an early stage or has already become contentious, we are here to help you find the clearest path forward, calmly, honestly and with your long-term interests firmly at the centre of everything we do. To speak with one of our family law solicitors, call us on 0191 284 5030 or complete a free online enquiry.