Regional law firm Prettys has launched an innovative dispute resolution service, “Talking Works”, which it says offers a potential solution to a wide range of legal problems.

The service, unveiled at a launch event at Wherstead Park, uses a mix of mediation and discussion alongside the more traditional methods of correspondence and court.

Georgie Hall, head of family law at Prettys, who is leading the initiative, said it allowed solutions even where one party does not have a solicitor.

Prettys, which has offices in Ipswich and Chelmsford, says that discussion provides better long-term outcomes because the parties have themselves been involved in finding the solution. It also helps preserve the best possible relationship in the future which is important in the context of family, estates, business and neighbour disputes where a continued relationship is often necessary.

Cases that have successfully used the kind of approach offered by Talking Works includes relationship disputes, care of children, inheritance and probate, land and neighbour disputes, civil and commercial disputes and employer/employee disputes.

Speakiing after the launch, Georgie Hall said: “I am delighted that the other professionals embraced the ideas so readily and are keen to implement this way of working to achieve best outcomes for clients. It was widely recognised this is a change for the positive.”