When starting a divorce, a client will want to know the financial consequences of a divorce and an understanding of the financial future, post-divorce. I give early advice on likely settlement options at our first meeting, using the estimate of the family assets I request from the client before that meeting. However, when we…
The consent order process is the most important part of your divorce negotiations. It is essential that you understand how this process fits within the divorce timeline, and why you also need a consent order when you have a financial agreement. When you marry, financial rights are established in law. These rights will not be…
Most people getting divorce fall within the category of “needs” cases. This means that assets are divided unequally (and not 50/50) to ensure that the basic financial needs of the parties are met when they exit the marriage. Myths There is a great deal of misunderstanding about how finances are dealt with on divorce. Two…
For clients who are neurodivergent — or caring for a neurodivergent child — navigating the family court system can come with additional challenges. Whether you’re dealing with divorce, a financial settlement, or a dispute about child arrangements, the court process is not always designed with cognitive difference in mind. Recognising this, the Family Justice Council…
In an effort to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of private law proceedings in family courts, the UK government introduced the Private Law Pathfinder Pilot. The recently published process evaluation looks at the pilot’s impact, highlighting key successes, ongoing challenges, and potential areas for future reform. Understanding the Pathfinder Pilot The Pathfinder Pilot was launched…
The landscape of family law in England and Wales continues to evolve, with 2024 bringing notable trends in divorce applications, orders to prevent domestic abuse, and private law cases. The latest statistics provide insights into the shifts in family court proceedings, highlighting key areas of growth and decline. Divorce Applications and Final Orders Between October…
When a relationship ends, there will need to be some discussions or negotiations about how finances are to be dealt with. If your child is neurodivergent, they will have additional needs. This financial settlement will primarily need to consider the financial needs of a child. This will be a priority of the court and should…
Divorce settlements often involve disputes over finances, property, and child arrangements. But what happens when the disagreement is about a beloved family dog? A recent case FI v DO highlights how courts approach pet ownership. The Background In this case, a couple who had been married for 12 years separated in 2022. Among their many…
Going through a divorce can be stressful and expensive. But there is a way to make the process quicker and cheaper. It’s called the Accelerated First Appointment Procedure, and it can help couples move forward without unnecessary delays. What is the First Appointment? When couples get divorced and cannot agree on finances, they may need…
When parents separate, they will try to agree arrangements for their children between themselves. If they are unable to agree on a plan, they may attend mediation, and eventually court, as they work towards establishing a fixed timetable for a child’s time. When parents of a neurodiverse child separate, it can present greater challenges. The…