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New divorce options can help Ipswich couples avoid court battles, say local family law experts

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Separating couples in Suffolk now have more options to resolve their divorce without going to court, as new rules require attempting out-of-court settlements first. With court delays exceeding 18 months, these alternative approaches could save both time and stress.

Why it matters: Following changes introduced in April 2024, couples who haven't tried to resolve disputes outside court could face penalties and financial sanctions.

The big picture: Two main alternatives to court proceedings are gaining traction locally, aimed at helping couples find amicable solutions.

Members of Ellisons’ Family Law Team: Sally Ward, Samantha Chase and Samantha Markham and Lisa Dawson
Members of Ellisons’ Family Law Team: Sally Ward, Samantha Chase and Samantha Markham and Lisa DawsonEllisons Solicitors

Lisa Dawson , Partner and Head of Family Law at Ellisons , explains: "With court delays often exceeding 18 months, these new approaches save time, reduce costs and help our clients find amicable solutions for the whole family."

How it works: Two main approaches are available:

Sally Ward , Senior Associate at Ellisons , explains:

We try to identify the right path for each family, by discussing all the appropriate options available to them and hopefully helping them to decide together which resource they can access to deal with matters outside of court.

Resolution Together allows one lawyer to work with both parties to find the best outcome for the whole family.

Yes, but: These approaches aren't suitable for everyone. Cases involving domestic abuse, significant power imbalances, or high emotions may still require traditional court proceedings.

The benefits: Out-of-court approaches can:

  • Speed up resolution, often taking months instead of years

  • Reduce legal costs

  • Support better co-parenting relationships

  • Give couples more control over timing and decisions

  • Create less stressful environments for discussions

"Collaborative law encourages less conflict and more communication, which supports co-parenting," explains Samantha Markham , Associate Solicitor at Ellisons . "Being able to positively co-parent is beneficial for children of the family who are adjusting to their new normal."

Bottom line: With new rules pushing for out-of-court settlements and significant court delays, these alternative approaches could offer Suffolk couples faster, less expensive, and more amicable ways to handle separation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Man charged after St Helen's Street assault leaves victim in hospital

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An argument in Ipswich town centre escalated into an assault that left one man in hospital on Tuesday. Police are now seeking dashcam footage as they build their case.

Why it matters: The incident occurred in a busy area of Ipswich's town centre, with police now seeking public assistance to gather additional evidence as they build their case.

The details: Keith McKenzie, 48, of Bond Street, has been charged with assault causing grievous bodily harm.

  • The assault took place at approximately 21:45 on Tuesday near the junction of St Helen's Street and Bond Street

  • A man in his 30s sustained arm injuries following an argument with an unknown assailant

  • The victim walked to Tavern Street to seek help before being taken to hospital

  • He has since been discharged

What's next: McKenzie appeared at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Thursday, 6 February and was remanded in custody. He is due to appear at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, 6 March.

How to help: Detectives want to hear from anyone who was driving in the area between 21:35 and 21:50 on Tuesday with dashcam footage that might have captured the altercation.

The bottom line: Anyone with information should contact South CID at Suffolk Police, quoting reference 37/6562/25, via:

  • Website: suffolk.police.uk/tell-us

  • Phone: 101

  • Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 (anonymously)

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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