The Solicitors Family Law Association has re-launched itself in a bid to explode myths about how its members handle cases and show that it is a source of help for clients as well as lawyers.

The 5,000-member group has changed its name to Resolution and set its main objectives as promoting mediation, early legal advice and collaborative family law to help avoid litigation.


It wants to show the public that consulting a solicitor does not always mean going to court, after a survey of more than 1,000 people showed that although 82% maintained that it was important for family lawyers to help achieve a fair outcome, just 55% put the same emphasis on avoiding a court battle.


Chairwoman Kim Beatson said Resolution had helped to revolutionise family law through measures such as accreditation schemes, training, and establishing a code of practice, but now felt it was time to adopt a new focus. 'Our new name reflects the need to take our message directly to the public, to boost their understanding of how the law works and to change attitudes,' she explained.