Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City Football Club, and his wife Cristina Serra have recently announced their separation after over 30 years together, 10 of which they were married. In an effort to maintain an amicable relationship and expedite the divorce process, they have opted for the “one couple, one lawyer” approach, engaging a single solicitor to represent both Pep and Cristina.
Their chosen lawyer will help Pep and Cristina to agree on an amicable and fair financial settlement and assist in getting that agreement approved by the Court. They can also provide guidance during any discussions surrounding arrangements for any minor children if needed. The parties will meet with their lawyer for joint sessions to explore and negotiate an appropriate financial agreement which can be sent to the Court for judicial approval. The process is relatively new but is becoming increasingly popular given the significant benefits of the approach, particularly where couples are committed to remaining harmonious and dealing with the divorce in the most cost-efficient way.
As manager of Manchester City, one of the richest and most successful football clubs in the world, it is clear that Pep will potentially have significant assets and income to consider as part of any financial settlement. That does not mean that the “one lawyer” approach is not suitable. Indeed, it is very encouraging to see a high-profile and wealthy individual acknowledge the benefits of the process.
It is important to note that the approach is most effective when both parties are committed to an amicable separation. It is not suitable if there are significant disputes between the parties or where there is any history of domestic abuse or an imbalance of power which might hinder the joint meetings which take place.
The Main Benefits of Using One Lawyer for Divorce:
Cost Savings
One of the most significant advantages of using the ‘’one couple, one lawyer’’ approach to divorce, is cost savings. Legal fees can quickly accumulate, especially in contentious divorces. By sharing a lawyer, couples can split the expenses, making the process more affordable.
Streamlined Communication
Using a single lawyer can simplify communication between the couple and their legal representative. Instead of navigating through two separate channels, all discussions and negotiations can be streamlined through one point of contact. This can reduce misunderstandings and ensure that both parties are on the same page throughout the process.
Simplified Negotiations
When a couple uses the same lawyer, negotiations may be more straightforward. The lawyer can facilitate discussions between the parties, helping them reach a consensus more efficiently. This can be particularly useful in cases where both parties are committed to resolving their differences amicably.
Reduced Stress
Divorce is inherently stressful, but using one lawyer can alleviate some of the pressure. With a single legal representative, couples can avoid the adversarial nature of having separate lawyers, which can sometimes escalate tensions. A cooperative approach can lead to a more peaceful and less emotionally taxing experience.
Conclusion
While the decision to use one lawyer for a divorce depends on the specific circumstances of each couple, the potential benefits are clear. Reduced legal fees, better communication, facilitated negotiations, and reduced stress are compelling reasons to consider this approach.
As the case of Pep and Cristina Guardiola illustrates, even high-profile individuals can benefit from a more collaborative and efficient divorce & financial process.
If you are considering divorce and want to explore the option of using one lawyer, please get in touch with one of our s to understand the implications and ensure that it is the right choice for your situation. Call us today on 0800 2800 421 to arrange a free initial consultation.
Disclaimer
This information is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. We recommend seeking professional advice before taking any action on the information provided. If you would like to discuss your specific circumstances, please feel free to contact us on 0800 2800 421.
