Excellent experience start to finish – always very responsive to any queries and the turnaround on the property I was buying was very quick, even in the busy time leading up to stamp duty deadline. Jenny was always very helpful and went above and beyond to close on a short timescale.
Davis Blank Furniss has been involved in the launch of a brand new Collaborative Law service called HOTpod, which consists of family lawyers, financial professionals and family consultants in the High Peak, Oldham & Tameside area. The newly formed group, which was unveiled just a few weeks ago, includes some of the area’s best known firms and locally based professionals and is dedicated to helping families who are experiencing family breakdown and want to avoid going to court.
Collaborative Law is a relatively new process that enables couples to resolve family disputes in a constructive and conciliatory manner and without involving the court. It differs from mediation as it provides separating couples with legal support within the process as their lawyers – along with other supporting professionals such as relationship counsellors, IFAs and accountants – are present at meetings as required during the process. During these sessions, all financial and other matters are discussed and outcomes agreed. Potential clients of HOTpod will have access to some of the region’s most experienced experts and a team that is best suited to their own needs and requirements, ensuring both peace of mind and confidence.
HOTpod is overseen by Resolution, resolution which was formerly known as the Solicitors Family Law Association (SFLA). Resolution is an organisation of 6,500 family lawyers and other professionals in England and Wales.
HOTpod was officially announced on Thursday 21st March at an event at the Glossop Cricket Club where attendees – including Andrew Bingham MP who represents High Peak – were briefed on what Collaborative Law is and how the group will work. Member organisations include businesses actually based in the area – including; ourselves, Thorneycroft Solicitors PDA Financial Planning, Absolute Specialists, Cheshire Mediation and Bakers Solicitors – as well as professionals who live locally and work for firms such as Mills & Reeve and DTE Group. A full list of members can be viewed here.
Anita Shepherd, spokesperson for HOTpod and head of our Collaborative Law team, commented: “When a family of any shape or size splits up, the upheaval and resulting legal process can be traumatic for everyone. It can often become very acrimonious which leads to even more pain and heartache – especially if children are involved.”
Anita added: “Collaborative Law can overcome that which is why HOTpod has been launched. Every member of HOTpod is an expert in their field and our aim is to help the families of High Peak, Oldham & Tameside in both a practical but also caring way. We’d also encourage any other professionals or businesses that many want to get involved – and who can make a difference to relationship breakdowns – to please get in touch.”
For more information, please log onto resolution login here.
