Divorce

HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) has released guidance for legal representatives using the online divorce and dissolution portal on changing the methods of service. 

Potential arguments can be avoided and acrimonious atmospheres dissolved by taking the precaution of making a post-nuptial or pre-nuptial agreement. Should couples choose to take this step, what must their legal adviser bear in mind, what are the necessary actions, and how have the courts treated such agreements?

Nuptial agreements: Sarah Scriven runs through the key points to consider now, to avoid disputes later

A financial claim in divorce cannot proceed if one spouse dies, the Supreme Court has held

How are the courts applying the law in relation to the issue of ‘parental alienation’? Luke Scarratt, senior associate at Payne Hicks Beach, investigates how the law is being applied and what tools the courts have at their disposal.

Parental alienation has the potential to cause serious harm to families & children: Luke Scarratt discusses the tools at the court’s disposal when it raises its head

Recent years have shown how quickly fortunes can change: Stephen Gerlis makes the case for regular reviews of maintenance payments in private family law

In this week’s NLJ, Caroline Bowden, consultant at Anthony Gold, is cautiously optimistic about a Ministry of Justice (MoJ) consultation on the earlier resolution of private family law arrangements for children, finances and housing. The aim is to keep family disputes out of court where possible, an aspiration approved of by family lawyers.

For many participants in a family dispute, almost any alternative is better than ending up in court. Caroline Bowden hopes the government will succeed in getting this message across

Clare Williams provides a practical guide to the court’s options for civil restraint orders in family practice