13/11/2025

This week is Good Divorce Week, which might sound like an odd concept. How can divorce be in any way ‘good’?

As family solicitors when we talk about a good divorce, what we really mean is a divorce that’s handled in a constructive, respectful and cooperative way with a firm focus on fairness and the wellbeing of everyone involved, especially children.

Good Divorce Week is organised by Resolution, an organisation that promotes a non-confrontational approach to family law issues. As Resolution members, our family law team always looks to avoid unnecessary conflict and blame, focusing instead on remaining amicable and prioritising any children affected by the divorce.

This approach matters more than ever with family courts stretched to breaking point and continuing to face severe delays. According to the latest statistics, over 1,000 new cases start in the family courts each working day, but there is an alternative.

Families don’t always need to go to court to resolve their issues. Out of court solutions can save time, reduce conflict and costs, and help families to move forward with their lives.

Resolution members follow a Code of Practice, which commits them to a constructive way of working with families and individuals, where conflict and confrontation is carefully managed.

How To Achieve A Good Divorce

In my experience, there are several key features of a good divorce:

  • A constructive approach – Avoiding blame and resolving practical issues like finances and parenting through discussion, rather than court where possible. The no-fault divorce law introduced in April 2022 was a big step forward in helping families to achieve this.
  • Putting children first – Prioritising the wellbeing of children by maintaining stability and establishing positive co-parenting arrangements, while avoiding children being drawn into any disputes.
  • Communication – Open dialogue and a willingness to embrace fair compromise goes a long way to achieving a good divorce.
  • Fair financial resolution – Very often the divorce itself is not the contentious issue. Disputes can arise when attempting to reach agreement over finances, especially when one side is not transparent or seems intent on punishing the other financially. Fairness and transparency are the key.
  • Emotional closure and respect – It goes without saying that emotions can run high for divorcing couples. However, if each can accept that the relationship is ending and can treat each other with respect, it is possible for both parties to heal, move on and, if co-parenting, have a functional post-divorce relationship.

Parenting Through Separation

Putting children first is a primary focus for all family solicitors who are Resolution members, but co-parenting isn’t always easy. To help families on their journey through separation and divorce, Resolution has produced a practical guide called Parenting Through Separation: Putting Your Children First, which aims to support parents to make decisions, find solutions and understand things from their child’s perspective.

Advice On Family Law

If you need advice on any aspect of divorce or family law, please contact our expert team by emailing enquiry@beswicks.com or phoning our Stoke-on-Trent solicitors on 01782 205000 or our Altrincham solicitors on 0161 929 8494.