The ‘one couple one lawyer’ approach to divorce

Today, divorce doesn’t have to be adversarial or expensive. At Sharp Family Law, we offer the innovative One Couple, One Lawyer approach. Otherwise known as joint representation, this is a modern, constructive way for separating couples to resolve their legal and financial arrangements together, with the guidance of a single impartial solicitor.

Richard Sharp, our founding solicitor, was among the first lawyers in England and Wales trained in this approach through the Resolution Together initiative. Since then, he has successfully guided more than 40 couples through the process, helping them achieve amicable, efficient and lasting outcomes.

Recent research on the One Lawyer, Two Clients format (Dr Rachael Blakey, 2025) found that this model leads to a high proportion of settlements and very positive client feedback, particularly when used by well-trained lawyers with strong screening and guidance practices. It offers an encouraging path forward for couples seeking to resolve matters respectfully, avoiding unnecessary conflict and cost.

At Sharp Family Law, we’ve seen first-hand how this approach helps separating couples move forward with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re looking for a more cooperative way to divorce or to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship, our team can help you achieve a resolution that works for both of you.

Speak to our family law specialists in Bristol, Bath and Bradford-on-Avon

At Sharp Family Law, we understand how difficult divorce can be. Our team can provide sympathetic support and clear, practical guidance to individuals and couples, helping to make divorce simpler while ensuring you get the best outcome for your future and that of your family.

We have offices in Bath, Bristol and Bradford-on-Avon. Our clients can expect constructive, clear, and friendly assistance from our family law and divorce solicitors, who will provide you with all the support you may need.

Why the One Couple, One Solicitor approach to divorce might be the right choice for you

Frank and transparent discussions

Effective divorce proceedings often require a couple to openly discuss sensitive matters, including finances, child arrangements and property division. If both spouses are comfortable having frank and transparent discussions, the One Couple, One Solicitor approach can facilitate these conversations in a productive manner.

Mutual respect

For the One Couple, One Solicitor model to work, the couple must have a high degree of respect for and trust in each other. The approach also relies on the confidence of the couple, that the lawyer will fairly represent them both, ensuring neither feels disadvantaged during the process.

Agreement on most important issues

If you and your spouse have already reached agreements on critical matters, such as property division, child arrangements and spousal support, this approach can streamline the divorce process, making it quicker and less contentious.

Co-parenting

For couples with children, maintaining a positive co-parenting relationship is crucial. By minimising conflict and fostering collaboration, the One Couple, One Solicitor approach can promote a more amicable separation, which may benefit the children's long-term well-being.

Desire for efficiency and cost-effectiveness

If both spouses are looking for a more efficient and affordable divorce, sharing a lawyer can significantly reduce legal fees. This approach can save time and costs, making it an appealing choice for couples seeking resolution.

Straightforward financial arrangements

Couples with straightforward financial situations, where asset division is agreed upon, may find the One Couple, One Solicitor approach both efficient and cost-effective. This method simplifies the process and avoids the need for multiple legal representatives.

Less adversarial process

If both spouses are committed to a fair, amicable divorce with shared goals, using one solicitor can help promote transparency and cooperation. This approach encourages a smoother, less adversarial process, beneficial for the couple.

Power balances

The One Couple, One Solicitor approach is not suitable in situations where there is a history of abuse or significant power imbalances between the spouses. In such cases, having separate legal representation is crucial to ensure fairness and protect the interests of both parties.

If these factors align with your current circumstances, the One Couple, One Solicitor approach may provide an efficient, cost-effective, and cooperative way to navigate your divorce and the resulting parenting and financial arrangements.

Frequently asked questions about the One Couple, One Lawyer approach

Can a divorcing couple use the same solicitor in England and Wales?

Yes, in England and Wales, a divorcing couple can use the same solicitor through One Couple, One Solicitor. This is so long as they are able to reach a mutual and fair settlement with no conflict of interest and without the need to go to court. Using the same lawyer for divorce can offer various benefits to separating couples, including a reduction of legal fees, an accelerated process, and less potential for conflict and animosity.

What does the One Couple, One Lawyer approach to divorce involve?

Simply put, the One Couple, One Lawyer approach means that both spouses are using the same lawyer for divorce. This lawyer can advise on the divorce application (which can be completed jointly by the couple or by a single spouse), as well as the division of finances and arrangements for children.

Why has this new approach to divorce been introduced?

England and Wales divorce law changed in April 2022 when the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 came into effect. The reforms were intended to modernise divorce and remove the potential for unnecessary conflict, for example, by getting rid of the need to assign blame for the failure of the marriage as part of the divorce application (i.e. ‘no fault divorce’).

The One Couple, One Lawyer approach is intended to further simplify the divorce process for couples and remove a potential source of conflict by having both people represented by the same lawyer. This approach is supported by leading family law network Resolution through their Resolution Together initiative.

Is joint representation the same as a joint application?

Joint representation and joint applications are different things that both relate to the divorce process. Joint representation means one lawyer representing both spouses, while a joint application is where the couple complete the divorce application together, rather than one spouse making the application alone (a ‘sole application’).

How will any disputes be resolved?

Should there be any points of disagreement during your divorce, there are several different options for finding a solution. Often, it is possible to simply discuss the matter in a constructive way with the impartial advice of your solicitor to agree a solution. In other circumstances, alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation may be appropriate.

Is joint representation always suitable for divorce?

While the One Couple, One Lawyer approach is likely to be a good option for most divorces, there may be some circumstances where it might not be appropriate. This includes where the relationship between the spouses is highly acrimonious and in situations where there have been allegations of domestic abuse.

We will be happy to advise on your situation and whether we think joint representation may be right for your divorce during your initial consultation with a member of our team.

How to choose the right lawyer for your divorce

Whether you choose the ‘One Couple, One Lawyer’ approach or prefer separate representation, selecting the right solicitor is crucial to achieving a fair and efficient resolution.

When considering a lawyer, our team of experts can offer:

• Specialist experience in family law and divorce – Divorce law is complex, so it’s vital to work with a solicitor who specialises in this area.
• Training in collaborative or joint representation models – The one-lawyer approach requires a unique skill set. Richard Sharp was one of the first lawyers in England and Wales to complete Resolution Together training, ensuring best practice in guiding couples through this innovative process.
• Proven experience – Richard and the Sharp Family Law team have now successfully supported over 40 couples using the one-lawyer approach, helping them to reach clear, fair and lasting settlements.
• Professional recognition – Sharp Family Law is ranked by Chambers & Partners and The Legal 500 for Family Law, and all our solicitors are Resolution members committed to constructive, non-confrontational practice.

Here’s what some of our clients have said:

“I had the experience of working with Sharp Family Law during a divorce process where they acted for both parties in a neutral and collaborative capacity. From start to finish, their service was outstanding—efficient, fair, and deeply respectful of the emotional complexities involved.”

“Their ability to remain impartial while guiding us through legal requirements helped ease tension and build trust on both sides. We were able to reach a mutually agreeable settlement quickly and with minimal conflict, which I attribute largely to their professionalism and balanced approach.”

If you’re looking for a fair, respectful and efficient resolution, Sharp Family Law can help you find a constructive way forward.

Speak to our family law specialists in Bristol, Bath and Bradford-on-Avon

At Sharp Family Law, we understand how difficult divorce can be. Our team can provide sympathetic support and clear, practical guidance to individuals and couples, helping to make divorce simpler while ensuring you get the best outcome for your future and that of your family.

We have offices in Bath, Bristol and Bradford-on-Avon. Our clients can expect constructive, clear and friendly assistance from our family law and divorce solicitors who will give you all the support you may need.

If you need legal assistance with any matters related to divorce and separation, email us at info@sharpfamilylaw.com, or you can call your local office.