Navigating divorce in the UK can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with rising legal costs and unnecessary conflict. One Couple One Lawyer is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional divorce in the UK, offering a more collaborative and cost-effective way for couples to separate amicably.
By working with a single, impartial legal professional, both parties can focus on reaching fair agreements without the stress of adversarial proceedings. In this guide, we’ll explore how this approach works and whether it could be the right option for your circumstances.
One Couple One Lawyer Specialists
Victoria Clarke, a Director and Head of Family Law at Elite Law Solicitors is a trained One Couple One Lawyer specialist. She has successfully guided numerous clients through the process, helping them to achieve amicable and lasting outcomes.
A highly respected figure in the field, Victoria has received numerous accolades for her expertise. She was named Family Lawyer of the Year by the Surrey Law Society in 2022, nominated for Family Law Team of the Year in 2023, and shortlisted for Legal Personality of the Year by LexisNexis the same year. Most recently, in 2024, she was awarded Lawyer of the Year by the Surrey Law Society, further solidifying her reputation for excellence.
Beyond her casework, Victoria is actively involved in legal reform. As a member of the Resolution Cohabitation Committee, she advocates for changes to cohabitation law. She has spoken on ITV News and LBC’s Tonight with Andrew Marr about this issue, appeared on the Family Law Podcast, and attended Parliament for the launch of Resolution’s Vision for Family Justice, focusing on securing legal rights for cohabiting couples.
Ready to simplify your Divorce with One Couple One Lawyer?
If you’re looking for a more amicable, cost-effective, and streamlined approach to separation, One Couple One Lawyer could be the solution you’ve been searching for.
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What is One Couple One Lawyer?
One Couple One Lawyer is a modern divorce approach where a single solicitor advises both parties together to help them reach a fair agreement.
Also known as joint representation or Resolution Together, this model is designed for couples who want a more cooperative, cost-effective alternative to traditional divorce.
Instead of each person hiring their own solicitor, both parties work with one lawyer to resolve finances, property, and arrangements for children in a structured and non-confrontational way.
Research by Dr Rachael Blakey of the University of Warwick has found that the One Couple One Lawyer approach “can be highly effective in facilitating an agreement between certain divorcing or separating couples”.
How does the One Couple One Lawyer approach to divorce work?
The One Couple One Lawyer process is built around cooperation and transparency.
Here’s how it typically works:
Initial joint meeting
Both parties meet the solicitor together to discuss their situation and goals.
Full financial disclosure
Each person is required to provide full financial disclosure and shares details of income, assets, debts, and pensions.
Joint discussions and guidance
The solicitor provides neutral legal advice to both parties at the same time.
Reaching an agreement on finances, property and arrangements for children
You work together to agree on finances, property, and child arrangements.
Finalising the divorce
The solicitor prepares the legal documents and submits them to court if required.
This process avoids adversarial negotiations and keeps communication open throughout.
Is One Couple One Lawyer legal in the UK?
Yes — but it is carefully regulated.
A solicitor can act for both parties in a divorce only where there is no conflict of interest and both clients give informed consent.
This approach has gained traction following the introduction of Resolution Together, an initiative developed by Resolution after the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020, which encourages a more constructive and less confrontational approach to separation.
If a conflict arises at any stage, the solicitor must stop acting for both parties.
Who is One Couple One Lawyer suitable for?
One Couple One Lawyer is not right for every situation, but it can be highly effective where the right conditions exist.
One Couple One Lawyer is suitable if:
- You are separating on relatively amicable terms
- You both want to avoid court proceedings
- You are willing to be open and honest about finances
- You are comfortable making decisions together
- Your financial situation is straightforward or moderately complex
One Couple One Lawyer is not suitable if:
- There is significant conflict or hostility
- One person suspects hidden assets
- There is a power imbalance in the relationship
- There are concerns about coercion or domestic abuse
In these cases, separate legal representation is usually more appropriate.
Benefits of One Couple One Lawyer Divorce
Lower legal costs of the divorce
One of the biggest advantages of One Couple One Lawyer is cost. Instead of paying for two solicitors, you share one, significantly reducing legal fees.
Faster resolution than traditional divorce
Without lengthy negotiations between two firms, agreements can often be reached much more quickly than traditional divorce proceedings.
Less stress and conflict during the divorce process
This approach encourages collaboration rather than confrontation, making the process less emotionally draining.
Greater control over outcomes
You and your partner make the decisions — not the court.
More constructive communication
Joint meetings help keep discussions focused and productive.
Risks and limitations of One Couple One Lawyer
While the One Couple One Lawyer model works well in many cases, it is important to understand its limitations.
- The solicitor cannot act in either party’s individual interests
- You do not receive separate, independent legal advice
- If disagreements arise, the process may need to stop
- Complex financial cases may require additional specialist input
This approach relies on trust, cooperation, and a genuine willingness to reach agreement.
One Couple One Lawyer vs Traditional Divorce
A side-by-side comparison of One Couple One Lawyer and traditional divorce, highlighting key differences in cost, duration, and level of conflict.
For many couples, the reduced conflict and cost of the One Couple One Lawyer approach make it an attractive option.
How much Does One Couple One Lawyer cost in the UK?
The cost of a One Couple One Lawyer divorce depends on complexity, but typical ranges are:
- One Couple One Lawyer: £5,000 – £10,000 (shared)
- Traditional divorce: £10,000 – £30,000+ (combined)
Because costs are shared and the process is more efficient, this model is often significantly more affordable.
What happens if we cannot agree?
If you are unable to reach agreement:
- The solicitor will try to guide discussions towards a resolution
- If this fails, they must stop acting for both parties
- You will then need to instruct separate solicitors
Although this can feel like a setback, it ensures fairness and protects both parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
The One Couple Lawyer approach to divorce is still relatively new to many people, and it’s natural to want clarity before deciding if it’s right for you.
Below we answer some of the most common questions about how the approach work and what you can expect – so you can make an informed, confident decision about your next steps.
Can one lawyer represent both parties in a divorce in the UK?
Yes, but only where there is no conflict of interest and both parties give informed consent.
Is joint representation always the best option for divorce?
Joint representation offers several notable advantages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution for every relationship. Couples with a high level of animosity, distrust, or complex financial entanglements might not be ideal candidates for this approach. Similarly, if there is a history of abuse or imbalance of power, separate legal representation is advisable.
How do I know the legal representative will be impartial with the One Couple One Lawyer approach?
Impartiality is a fundamental aspect of the One Couple One Lawyer approach to divorce. Lawyers who opt to work under this model are typically trained in mediation and conflict resolution.
Their role is to guide, not to favour one party over another. Prior to formalising the engagement, the lawyer usually provides a written agreement that outlines their role and responsibilities, ensuring transparency.
Is One Couple One Lawyer safe?
Yes, provided there is trust, transparency, and no imbalance of power.
Is One Couple One Lawyer cheaper than traditional divorce?
In most cases, the One Couple One Lawyer approach is significantly cheaper than a traditional divorce.
Do we both get legal advice if we choose the One Couple One Layer approach?
Yes — but it is joint, neutral advice rather than individual representation.
What is Resolution Together divorce?
Resolution Together divorce is a UK initiative that promotes a cooperative divorce process using one solicitor for both parties.
Speak to a One Couple One Lawyer Solicitor
Speak to a One Couple One Lawyer SolicitorIf you are considering a divorce, you will have all types questions running through your mind relating to child arrangements, finances and the breakdown of the relationship itself.
Over the years we have helped many clients overcome these type of questions and will use our knowledge and expertise in family law to help you do the same.
Given the complexities and sensitive nature of divorce issues, it is essential that you seek specialist legal advice and representation from appropriately qualified and accredited solicitors to ensure that you are fully aware of your legal rights and the options available to you.
Our One Couple One Lawyer specialist is Victoria Clarke, who is a Director and the Head of our Family Department. Victoria was named as Lawyer of the Year at the Surrey Law Society (SLS) Legal Awards 2024. She has a specialist accreditation from Resolution in High Value Financial Remedies and Cohabitation.
Whether you want to use the One Couple One Lawyer approach or require your own individual representation for divorce, Victoria will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome for you.
Book a FREE initial consultation
Get in touch today:
☎️ Call 0800 086 2929
???? Email info@elitelawsolicitors.co.uk, or
✅ Complete our Free Online Enquiry Form to book your free initial consultation with an experienced family lawyer.
The content of this article is for general information only. The information in this article is not legal or professional advice. If you would like legal advice you should contact a qualified family solicitor, such as those within our firm.
