News

How Long Does it take to get a Divorce in the UK?

It is the first question almost everyone asks, and the honest answer is longer than you might hope. The no-fault system introduced in 2022 built in deliberate waiting periods, so even the simplest divorce cannot be rushed. Here is where the time actually goes.    The minimum timeline If everything runs smoothly and both people

Divorce or legal separation: which is right for you?

When a relationship breaks down, divorce is not the only option, and it is not always the right first step. Some couples want time apart before deciding anything final; others have personal or religious reasons for staying married on paper. Knowing the alternatives helps you make a considered choice rather than a rushed one.  

Sorting Out Money: Financial Settlements on Divorce

It is one of the most common and costly misunderstandings in family law: people assume that once the divorce comes through, the money is also sorted at the same time. It is not. The divorce and the separation of finances are two separate processes, and dealing with financial matters t is often the more important

Can You Keep What’s Yours in Divorce? What Standish v Standish Means for Your Assets

In the recently decided case of Standish -v- Standish, the Supreme Court addressed a dispute between Clive and Anna Standish over approximately £77-80 million transferred by the husband (Clive) to his wife (Anna) in 2017, as part of a tax-planning scheme that was devised to benefit their children. Subsequently, the marriage ended in 2020, and

Understanding Family Mediation: A Path to Resolving Disputes Without Court

Divorce or separation is never easy, and the process of untangling a relationship can be emotionally and financially draining. Many individuals find themselves navigating complex legal matters, from custody arrangements to financial settlements. However, not everyone is aware that there is a more amicable and cost-effective route available to help resolve these issues: family mediation.

How a Solicitor Can Help in Care Proceedings concerning Children

Public law proceedings concerning children are legal matters that involve state intervention in family life. These proceedings often arise when there are concerns about a child’s welfare, and they can result in decisions about the child’s future, including where they live, who they spend time with and in cases of last resort, their possible adoption.

Court and Tribunal Fee’s on the Up – but not for Divorce applications

Following a consultation process, the Ministry of Justice has confirmed which Court and Tribunal fees, including those for family proceedings, will increase from May 2024 but it has been decided that the application fee for a divorce, currently £593, will NOT increase. The consultation paper ‘Implementing increases to selected court and tribunal fees’, published on

Financial Remedy Order on Divorce – Law Commission to examine 50-year-old law

Every year, tens of thousands of couples begin proceedings for separation which result in the use of financial remedy orders – orders which determine how their finances are divided after they are no longer together. Going through a divorce or ending a civil partnership is often a stressful and hugely consequential period for any couple

Can a father stop a mother taking a child on holiday?

As schools close for the February half-term break, many parents are planning family holidays abroad or staycations in the UK. However, for separated parents, disagreements can sometimes arise over who can take the child on holiday, particularly when travel involves going overseas. A common question we are asked is: “Can a father stop a mother