Oct 25

The Roses and real life family law

Written by Carmelita Ardren
Head of Family, Children and Divorce

DDI: 01423 724 639
M: 07854 312652
E: carmelita.ardren@raworths.co.uk

I may be showing my age, but I loved the original version of War of the Roses film with Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner. So when ‘The Roses’ remake landed recently in the cinemas with national treasures, Olivia Coleman and Benedict Cumberbatch, I was ready to commit to an evening of dark comedy and perhaps a glass of something chilled.

At the time of the original film, I was an A-Level student intending to study law at university and becoming a family solicitor. The premise of the film, for those unversed from the original, is a couple who are separating, encouraged by their respective Rottweiler lawyers, draw battle lines and behave in a way that in the film is extreme and as a consequence darkly comic. The original film was hilarious and fast paced and very much of its time!.

Roll on 36 years, and when it comes to family law, the truth is frequently stranger than fiction as real life unfolds in unpredictable and extraordinary ways, sometimes defying all logic. I am no longer easily surprised.

Thank goodness that the law has moved on. As a member of Resolution from the outset committed to constructive resolution of family disputes, I have always practised with an appreciation of the impact of the advice I give on my client, their spouse and the wider family.

There is a much greater appreciation and acceptance of the important role of counsellors, professional coaches and therapeutic involvement. That is not to say that emotions do not run high, they absolutely do, but rather than fanning the flames, most good family lawyers will be attempting to calm troubled waters and to find common ground and positive outcomes – not draw battle lines. Choosing the right lawyer with the right approach at the outset can have a huge impact on your case, its outcome and the likely costs.

The law now recognises the importance of keeping things out of court by finding alternative ways of resolving disputes whether it be by way of mediation, collaborative law or looking for early neutral evaluation. This has to be the way forward. A principled approach so that wherever possible the parties end their relationship looking towards their future.

At the end of the original film, Michael Douglas’ lawyer (Danny Devito) learns his lesson and encourages his clients to find a better way to end their relationship and resolve their financial matters. Something that most family lawyers have committed to for many years.

I do wonder how this old film all translates to a film 30+ years later? Perhaps the new film is worth a whirl. I wonder whether I can class this as part of my Continuing Professional Development.

Carmelita Ardren is Head of Family Law at Raworths based in Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Carmelita is ranked in both Chambers UK and the Legal 500, independent guides to the legal profession. She can be contacted on 01423 566 666 or email carmelita.ardren@raworths.co.uk

Published on 2 October 2025

The information and any commentary contained in this briefing is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or any other type of professional advice.