Sometimes when a relationship breaks down there is such a significant dispute in relation to either finances or the children that a protracted Court case seems inevitable.  But is that really the answer?

If you end up going to Court then it is likely that you will have to pay your own legal costs and these can easily reach £10,000 or more on both sides. Not only are there financial costs but the cost to your ongoing relationship with your ex partner may suffer irreparable damage if you fight things out in Court.  If you have children together then you will need to maintain some kind of positive relationship for their sake.

It is worth taking a step back and asking: Is there another way? My advice is that, if there is any possibility of dialogue between yourself and your ex then it is worth exploring.  If you can reach an agreement about money or children without incurring substantial costs or going to Court then it must be worth a try. If direct discussions aren't possible or fail, then consider going to Mediation with your ex partner or instructing a Collaborative Lawyer, who will arrange a round table meeting to see whether discussions can proceed and an agreement can be reached without going to Court.

If you can save costs, stress and your relationship as parents for the sake of the children, then that has to be worth a go!