What Does a “Good Divorce” Really Mean?

December 15, 2025

Following Good Divorce Week, we want to remind everyone that these principles should guide us throughout the year, not just for one week. A “good divorce” is not a one-size-fits-all concept and can look very different for different people. For some, it means reducing conflict and maintaining respect. For others, it’s about prioritising children’s needs, safeguarding mental health, and ensuring that everyone involved feels supported during this life-changing transition.

At Herrington Carmichael, we recognise that while our role as family law solicitors is to provide clear and practical legal advice, our clients are often navigating one of the most challenging periods of their lives. Divorce isn’t just a legal matter – it is deeply personal, emotional, and can impact every aspect of wellbeing. That’s why we believe in a holistic approach.

Why Does a Good Divorce Matter?

Divorce is often portrayed as confrontational, but it doesn’t have to be. A low-conflict, amicable approach can make a significant difference to emotional wellbeing, financial stability, and family relationships.

At our firm, we believe that a good divorce focuses on:

  • Minimising conflict – reducing stress and avoiding unnecessary disputes.
  • Prioritising children – keeping their needs and stability at the heart of every decision.
  • Supporting mental health – recognising the emotional impact and providing access to help.
  • Promoting dignity and respect – enabling both parties to move forward positively.
The Role of Alternative Dispute Resolution in Divorce

A good divorce often involves exploring alternatives to court proceedings, now known as non-court dispute resolution (“NCDR”). Mediation and collaborative law allow couples to work together to reach agreements in a constructive environment. These approaches can reduce stress, save costs, and keep decision-making in your hands rather than the court’s.

To find out more about NCDR, please see our articles here:

  1. Family Therapy and Mediation
  2. Private FDRs
  3. Exploring NCDR options
Beyond Legal Advice: A Holistic Approach to Divorce

While our primary role as a family law solicitor is to provide expert legal guidance, we understand that divorce is more than a legal process – it is deeply personal, where there can be many layers of complexity.

Alongside legal guidance and support based on our professional experience, we work alongside trusted professionals to offer additional support, and encourage clients to explore resources such as:

  • Divorce coaches – helping clients manage the practical and emotional challenges.
  • Counselling and therapy – for individuals or families who need space to heal.
  • Child-focused specialists – ensuring children’s wellbeing remains central.

These conversations shouldn’t only happen during Good Divorce Week. They should be part of every divorce journey. By collaborating with professional colleagues and prioritising wellbeing, our family law solicitors help clients navigate separation with clarity and confidence.

Practical Tips for a Good Divorce
  1. Communicate openly and respectfully.
  2. Keep children out of conflict.
  3. Seek professional emotional support early.
  4. Focus on long-term goals, not short-term disputes.
Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you want expert advice on amicable separation, child arrangements, and financial settlements, alongside guidance on emotional support resources, our experienced family law team is here to help. We combine expert legal advice with a commitment to supporting your emotional wellbeing throughout the process.

Contact us today to speak to Paul Wild (who is our Head of Department) or any one of our family law specialists to start that conversation to start planning a positive way forward.

Paul Wild
Partner, Head of Family
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This reflects the law and market position at the date of publication and is written as a general guide. It does not contain definitive legal advice, which should be sought in relation to a specific matter.

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