When a relationship breaks down, Collaborative Law offers separating or divorcing couples the chance to reach their own solutions with dignity and respect, with the assistance of specialist, collaborative family lawyers and other professionals.
We are now able to see clients face to face at our offices by appointment, but we also continue to offer appointments by video conferencing including Zoom, Microsoft Teams and other platforms.
To make an appointment, please complete our online form or call 01243 769001
Edward Cooke
Director, Edward Cooke Family Law
When a relationship breaks down, Collaborative Law offers separating or divorcing couples the chance to reach their own solutions with dignity and respect, with the assistance of specialist, collaborative family lawyers and other professionals.
At our initial meeting, in the context of explaining all options to you, we will share how the collaborative process works and help you assess whether or not it may be for you.
If you decide you wish to embark on the collaborative process, we normally introduce you to a family consultant before the first face-to-face meeting. The family consultant normally meets you and your partner individually and together and will then help you throughout the process.
The first meeting normally involves you, your partner, your collaborative lawyers and the family consultant. Everyone will sign a Participation Agreement, which includes a provision stating that, if the process breaks down, each person will need to find a different solicitor. Everyone is therefore fully committed to endeavouring to reach a solution in the process.
Where appropriate, a financial neutral and/or other professionals (such as an accountant to look at business valuation issues or a barrister to provide a jointly-instructed legal opinion) can be instructed to assist in the process.
Edward Cooke is a member of the Three Counties Family Law Group and the Chichester and South Downs Collaborative Law Group.
Both are groups of collaborative law professionals, including collaborative lawyers and family consultancy professionals.
We offer meetings (subject to our Covid procedures) at our offices or, if you prefer, appointments by video conferencing including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and other platforms. We have been undertaking online client appointments, remote court hearings, online mediation, conferences and settlement meetings throughout the pandemic and are very familiar with using a wide range of online platforms.
To make an initial appointment please complete the online submission form in the box below, or if you would rather speak to a member of
our team directly please call 01243 769001.