Legal News | 22.09.26

One couple, one lawyer: a more collaborative approach to divorce

Divorce can be emotionally draining and financially challenging. For couples who are able to communicate and broadly agree on the key issues, Wansbroughs’ one couple, one lawyer divorce service offers a more streamlined and cost-effective alternative to the traditional model, where each spouse instructs their own solicitor.

Under this approach, a single lawyer works with both parties to help them understand the legal framework, identify the issues that need to be resolved, and work towards an agreed outcome. The lawyer’s role is to facilitate the process and provide legal information, rather than act as an advocate for either spouse.

The benefits of one couple, one lawyer divorce
For the right couple, a one couple, one lawyer approach can offer several practical benefits. While it will not be suitable for every situation, it can provide a more constructive, efficient and cost-effective way to manage the legal aspects of separation where both parties are willing to work together.

Reduced legal costs
One of the most obvious advantages is the potential to reduce legal fees. Where each spouse appoints a separate lawyer, both professionals may spend time reviewing the same documents, corresponding with one another, negotiating terms, and preparing similar paperwork. A single-lawyer model can reduce duplication and make better use of the couple’s legal budget. This can be particularly attractive where the couple has relatively straightforward financial circumstances and is committed to reaching an agreement.

A more collaborative way to separate
Traditional divorce proceedings can sometimes feel adversarial, even when both spouses want an amicable separation.
A one couple, one lawyer service is designed around collaboration rather than confrontation. It focuses on identifying the couple’s priorities and helping them reach practical solutions.
This approach can make it easier for couples to maintain a constructive relationship during and after the divorce, which can be particularly important when they have children together.

One shared source of legal information
Having one lawyer involved means both parties receive information about the same legal framework and process.
The lawyer can explain matters such as the divorce process, financial disclosure, division of assets and liabilities, property and pension considerations, child arrangements, maintenance, consent orders and financial settlements, and the legal consequences of an agreed settlement. This can help both spouses make informed decisions without each having to obtain the same basic explanation independently.

A more efficient process
Where there is a genuine willingness to cooperate, having one lawyer coordinate the process can reduce unnecessary correspondence and delay. Instead of two legal teams communicating back and forth, the lawyer can help the couple identify outstanding issues and work through them in a structured manner. The process can therefore be more efficient, particularly where the couple has already discussed their preferred arrangements.

Greater control for the couple
A collaborative divorce can give the couple greater control over the outcome. Rather than asking a court to determine disputed issues, the couple can work together to find solutions that reflect their individual circumstances and priorities. For example, they may be able to agree on how their home, savings, pensions and other assets should be dealt with, as well as arrangements for their children. The lawyer can help ensure that the couple understands the legal implications of the proposed agreement before it is formalised.

Less stress and conflict
Divorce is often stressful enough without adding unnecessary legal conflict. A one-lawyer model can encourage respectful communication and problem-solving. By focusing on common objectives rather than competing positions, couples may be able to avoid some of the tension associated with contested proceedings.
This does not mean that disagreements will never arise. However, the process can provide a structured environment in which disagreements are addressed constructively.

Is a one couple, one lawyer divorce service suitable for you?
A one couple, one lawyer divorce service is generally most suitable where both spouses want to separate amicably, are willing to be open and honest about their finances, are prepared to negotiate, can communicate reasonably well, want to avoid unnecessary conflict, and understand that the lawyer is not acting exclusively for either spouse.
It can be a helpful option for couples who have already reached broad agreement but want professional legal guidance to ensure that their arrangements are properly considered and documented.

A better focus on long-term solutions
A divorce settlement is not simply about dividing assets on the day the relationship ends. It can affect both parties for many years.
A collaborative process can encourage couples to consider their longer-term needs, including housing, retirement planning, children’s needs and future financial security.
The lawyer can help identify issues that the couple may not have considered themselves, reducing the risk of important matters being overlooked.

Important considerations before choosing one couple, one lawyer
A one couple, one lawyer service will not be appropriate for every divorce, and it is important that both parties understand how the process works before deciding whether it is right for them.
Because the lawyer is working with both parties, they cannot usually provide confidential advice to one spouse against the interests of the other. Where there is a significant conflict of interest, a substantial imbalance in bargaining power, domestic abuse, coercion, financial dishonesty or a fundamental disagreement about the settlement, each spouse may need to take independent legal advice.

How Wansbroughs can help
For couples who are able to work together constructively, a one couple, one lawyer divorce service can provide a more collaborative, efficient and cost-effective route through separation.
If you and your spouse are considering an amicable divorce and would like to understand whether a one couple, one lawyer approach could work for you, our Family & Divorce Team can explain the options and help you decide on the most appropriate next step.