We thought it might be of interest to shed some light on some common myths regarding Family Law:- Is there such a thing as a Common Law Husband/Wife? No, there is no such thing as a common law husband or wife. Unless you are married the law does not protect you if you simply live…
LEGAL AGE OF MARRIAGE IN ENGLAND AND WALES RISES TO 18 Vulnerable children across England and Wales will be better protected from the damaging impact of forced marriage as the legal age of marriage rises to 18 in England and Wales. The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022 came into force on 27th…
Special Guardianship Orders (SGO) There are some occasions when it is necessary for a person, other than a parent, to obtain parental responsibility for a child in their care. In these circumstances, anyone over 18 may apply to the Court for a Special Guardianship Order for a child they are looking after. Such an order…
What is Family Mediation? When relationships end emotions can run high and talking face to face can seem like the hardest thing to do. Sometimes you need help to get the talking started and focus on what really matters to you and your family. That’s where mediation can come in. The idea behind family mediation…
The covid pandemic has seen a boom in the number of households acquiring a new pet. Research suggests that pets, especially dogs and cats, can reduce stress, anxiety, ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness and even improve cardiovascular health. Caring for an animal can help children grow up more secure and active. Pets can also…
To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? The new question for schoolchildren. At a time when school children are supposed to be asking questions about homework or extracurricular activities, the announcement that the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine is safe for use in children 12 – 15 years old, and that they can choose to receive it irrespective…
Married at first sight UK has become a reality TV sensation with viewers across the UK tuning in to watch couples tie the knot with complete strangers for a daring television experiment. As this series draws to a conclusion we consider the real life question of what can you do if you realise shortly after…
The court can make the following orders under section 8 of the Children Act 1989:- a child arrangements order; prohibited steps order and a specific issue order. A child arrangements order is an order specifying with whom a child shall live and when the child spends time with another. A prohibited steps order prevents a…
Maintenance pending suit (MPS) is financial support paid by one spouse to the other after divorce proceedings start until the divorce is finalised and a final adjustment of finances is made between the parties. Similar provisions apply to those in civil partnerships. Reasons for applying for maintenance pending suit Genuine need is the most common…
If you get divorced or dissolve a civil partnership, your pension assets should be taken into account as part of any financial settlement. Pensions should not be ignored as they are often the most significant asset after a house. The courts are able deal with pension arrangements in one of 3 ways:- Pension Sharing order:-…