Out of Court Options

We take a calm, open and solution focused approach to helping you resolve your family matters through non court routes. Our team is experienced in advising clients at all stages of separation and in choosing the most effective process to achieve a fair and sensible outcome.

We routinely support clients with:

• Mediation, including child inclusive, shuttle and hybrid formats
• The one lawyer model for couples who want to work jointly with one solicitor
• Collaborative law
• Family arbitration (finance and children)
• Private FDR/ENE
• Legal advice alongside mediation started elsewhere
• Preparing and formalising agreements, including consent orders
• Complex financial matters including businesses, trusts and international assets
• Child arrangements, including relocation, child abduction and matters involving neurodivergent children

Our clear and practical advice ensures you understand each step; legally, emotionally and strategically, so you feel confident and supported throughout.

Mediation

A structured process to help you reach agreement about finances, children, or both. Our mediators are experienced in all formats, including child‑inclusive and hybrid mediation. Sessions can take place in person or online.

If you are mediating elsewhere, we can provide independent legal advice and draw up legally binding documentation to finalise your agreement.

One‑lawyer model

For couples who wish to work together constructively, the one‑lawyer model provides shared support and guidance from a single specially trained solicitor. It removes the sense of opposition and encourages transparency, respect and open communication. This can reduce conflict, streamline costs and help couples reach well‑informed, balanced agreements more quickly.

Collaborative law

Collaborative law involves both partners instructing collaboratively trained solicitors and committing not to go to court. Meetings take place around the table to work through issues together, often with neutral experts where helpful. This approach promotes dignity, control and long‑term cooperation - especially valuable where children, family businesses or complex assets are involved. Both partners instruct collaboratively trained lawyers and commit to resolving matters around the table without court involvement, bringing in neutral experts where helpful.

Family arbitration

A private, flexible and confidential process where you appoint an arbitrator to make a binding decision. Arbitration avoids court delays, allows you to choose a specialist decision‑maker and can be tailored to suit your timetable and priorities. It is particularly effective in complex or urgent cases, or where privacy and certainty are key.

Private FDR/ENE

A private FDR/early neutral evaluation provides experienced, impartial guidance on likely court outcomes, helping identify fair settlement options at an early stage. Sessions can be arranged quickly and tailored to your needs, offering structure and clarity without the pressure of litigation.

This service is led by Fiona Read, whose calm, authoritative perspective and judicial insight support positive resolution.

Here are some comments made about us.

"Russell-Cooke has a fabulous family team. They cover the full spectrum of family law and have some of the best lawyers."
Legal 500 (2025)

"The team has a huge depth of experience and expertise, always delivering a fantastic service to clients."
Legal 500 (2025)

"James Carroll is outstanding. He is clever, effortlessly constructive, and far-sighted."
Legal 500 (2025)

"Katie Longmate has cemented herself in the mediation world. A super human touch regularly helps clients reach successful outcomes."
Legal 500 (2025)