Is it true what they say - that it's not divorce itself but the way you divorce that takes the heaviest toll? It is a sad fact of life that almost half of UK marriages will end in failure. The cost is not just financial. It is the personal and emotional turmoil that so often accompany divorce. A bad divorce can leave a lasting scar, not just on the couple but also on their children and wider family.

It is now possible for a divorcing couple to work with their respective lawyers and plan their future after divorce, creating an agreement together. The couple emerge from the process without the bitterness and unresolved anger that can so often occur.

It is not an easy option to deal with the end of a relationship collaboratively - it requires the right mindset from all involved. The couple each instruct their own collaborative family lawyer who provides a structure to work to. Lawyers who practice collaboratively have all the technical expertise you would expect, as well as skill and compassion.

The couple commit to dealing with their finances fully without involving the Court - they are not dragged along a legal conveyor belt. They set their own agenda, work at a pace they are comfortable with, and are able to talk openly about issues that matter to them. This sends out remarkably positive signals to children who benefit hugely from knowing their parents are working out their differences together, constructively.

Collaborative lawyer Debbie Fowler works with those who want to resolve things fairly and amicably for the benefit of themselves and their family. She helps them to have control, to make good legal decisions and to achieve an optimal result so that they can enter a new stage in their life with respect, dignity and confidence.

To find out more about collaborative family law please contact Debbie Fowler at DWT Legal on 01562 66000 or visit www.collabfamilylaw.org.uk