In this article, Family Partner Andrew Stynes outlines the new fees that the Government are proposing, when they might come into force and what it means for you.
Family
In this article, Family Law Expert simon immins outlines how Non-Molestation Orders work, how to apply and more…
Andy Stynes details the current family court fees and what they are changing to from 30th September.
In this article, Olivia Le Masurier outlines the various forms of ADR, what they involve and the pros and cons; so you can make an informed decision.
In her first article for the firm, Family Associate Olivia Le Masurier looks at how surrogacy works and the legal aspects.
In his latest article, Family Partner and Solicitor Simon Immins outlines what parental alienation is and looks at what legal steps you can take to prevent and resolve it.
In his latest article, Family Expert Andrew Stynes outlines the benefits of the new one couple one lawyer model and how it works.
In his latest article, Family Partner Andy Stynes looks at the different type of agreements that can be used to set out ownership of property and outlines which is best.
In this article, Family Trainee Katelyn Webster has outlined everything you need to know to arrange suitable child support and what to do if your ex partner is refusing to pay.
Unfortunately, situations can arise where grandparents are denied contact with their grandchildren. If you’re in this difficult position, you do have some options and there are legal steps you can take.
In his latest article, Family Partner Simon Immins outlines what those steps are and your rights as a grandparent.
In his latest article, Family Partner Andy Stynes outlines the grounds for civil partnership dissolution, the costs involved, how assets are divided and more.
In his latest article, Family Partner Andy Stynes provides some helpful tips for successful co-parenting and outlines what parents can do if their arrangements aren’t working.
Whether you are going through a divorce, separation or another type of family dispute, understanding how a Child Arrangement Order works can help you make informed decisions about your child’s future.
In her latest article, Olivia Le Masurier outlines how these Orders work, the rights they give you, why you might need one and how to apply.
In this article, Family Partner Simon Immins looks at the pros and cons of entering into a post-nuptial agreement and outlines what can and can’t be included in one.
In his latest article, Simon Immins outlines what rights you have if the house is in your partner’s name.
After the divorce process changed earlier in the year, cost orders are now granted less frequently.
In his latest article, Andy looks at how a costs order can be obtained under the new law and what to include in the application.
The rules around parental responsibility can be somewhat confusing and can vary depending on the situation.
Here, Simon answers some of the most common questions around parental responsibility.
What happens when parents can’t agree on their child’s schooling arrangements? In this article, Family Partner Andy Stynes looks at how disputes around a child’s school can be resolved and dealt with.
Cohabitation Agreements can be used to protect a couple’s assets and clear up any uncertainty regarding shared assets in separation. In this article, Simon Immins takes a look at these agremeents outlining the pros, cons and costs.
We often get questions from step-mothers and step-fathers regarding their rights to step children.
In this article, Family Partner Andy Stynes answers some of these questions and discusses step-parent’s parental responsibility.
In this article, Family Partner Simon Immins answers questions around clean break consent orders.
Simon outlines exactly how long it takes to attain a clean break consent order and discusses your options if your ex-partner doesn’t agree to enter into one.
Olivia takes a look at separation agreements, discussing whether they're binding, enforceable and ultimately worthwhile.
In this article, Family Partner Simon Immins looks at some points that may be helpful when considering what possible action to take when parents disagree over the vaccination of their child.
Divorce is changing completely on April 6th. No-fault divorce will take over from the previous 'fault-based' divorce and, with that, divorce terminology will also be updated.
In this article, Andy outlines and defines the terminology going forward.
In this article, Simon Immins discusses DIY divorce and how it will work with the new divorce law going forward.
Louisa looks at whether a DIY divorce is easier, discussing the pros and cons, and outlines the divorce process in full.
The new law, coming into force on April 6th, states that couples can apply for divorce jointly for the first time ever.
Specialist family and no fault divorce solicitor and partner Andy Stynes looks at the benefits of joint application and outlines how you can apply in his latest article.
The upcoming introduction of the Divorce Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 is set to introduce no-fault divorce.
Family Partner Simon Immins takes a look at the no-fault divorce process and discusses how long it will take to complete.
In this article, experienced Family Solicitor & Partner Andy Stynes details everything that you need to know about No Fault Divorce. Including - what NFD is, when it comes into law, how NFD works, whether it can be contested and more.
In this article, Family Partner Andrew Stynes outlines when a parent can and can’t take their child abroad.
Andrew Stynes details the current family court fees and what they are changing to from 30th September.
Andy Stynes answers some common questions around the rights of separated parents as the kids return to school.
Andy Stynes looks at post nuptial agreements; discussing what they are, how they're used and whether you need one. She also looks at whether post nups are legally binding and how they can be used to protect assets in divorce or separation.
Ministers announced yesterday that the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 will come into force on 6th April 2022. The bill allows couples to divorce or dissolve their civil partnership without assigning blame, a process that is commonly...
Amy Langlois, solicitor in our Family Team, looks at LSPOs; discussing how they can be used during divorce when a person can't afford legal fees and doesn't qualify for legal aid.
What happens if we can't agree on child arrangements? How do the courts decide child arrangements? Simon Immins provides an in depth guide to divorce and child arrangements, describing court proceedings and answering some frequently asked questions.
Will my partner get half my pension if we divorce? Simon Immins, Partner in our family department, answers your questions on pensions and pension distribution during divorce.
Simon Immins, Partner in our family team, looks the advantages and disadvantages of getting a divorce yourself online in her latest article.
Olivia Le Masurier looks at financial orders, and explains why they are so important for divorcing or separating couples.
Andrew Stynes head of our specialist family law team, answers the most frequently-asked questions about naming a child and changing a child's name.
Advice for separated parents on seeing children during lockdown, self-isolation, and quarantine in the COVID pandemic
Divorce - what am I entitled to?
One of the first things we are often asked by clients considering divorce, is ‘what am I entitled to?’ or ‘who gets what?’
The ‘Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill’, often commonly referred to as the ‘No-fault Divorce Bill’ was first introduced in June 2019.
It has seen delays to it’s progression into law thanks to Brexit, elections and the coronavirus pandemic, and entered the parliamentary process on 7th January 2020.
It was announced on 17th June that it will now pass to the House of Lords to consider an amendment, and will then receive Royal Assent.
Children of separated parents in coronavirus lockdown. Government guidance for divorced parents during COVID-19 lockdown.
UPDATE: No-fault divorce became law on April 6th 2022. Read 'everything you need to know about no-fault divorce' here. Separating couples in England and Wales will soon be able end their relationship without having to blame one another, thanks...
The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill was included in the government’s agenda set out in the Queen’s speech in December 2019. There has been delay in progress as a result of COVID-19 yet the bill passed it’s first hurdle in the House of Commons in early June. We will update as the bill progresses and a timetable is announced
Andy Stynes, Family Lawwyer and Head of our Family Law Team in Christchurch, answers FAQs about unmarried fathers' rights. Does an unmarried father have parental responsibility? What custody rights do they have? How about 'Live with' and 'time with' rights? Or proof of paternity?
In this article, Simon Immins, Partner from our Family Law Team, will aim to answer the most common questions about prenuptial agreements.
In this article, Simon, Partner from our Family Law Team, will aim to answer the most common questions about prenuptial agreements.
As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. No-fault divorce is now law. Therefore, the information in this article may be outdated. Please refer to our dedicated divorce page ...
When a child is born, the mother and the father automatically have parental responsibility (if they are married or named on the birth certificate). However, parental responsibility does not give an automatic right to contact. Contact between a child and the...
We are a nation of dog and cat lovers (it is estimated that 12 million UK households (46% of homes) have pets). In most homes, pets are often viewed as another member of the family, forming a vital part of the family unit. So when a couple divorces or...
Family Law solicitor Simon Immins reviews the case of Owens V Owens and the implications of it in relation to 'unreasonable behaviour' and 'no fault divorce'
The Partners at Frettens Solicitors were delighted last week to announce the opening of a second office in Ringwood in July 2018. Who will be based at Ringwood? The Ringwood team...
The Partners of Frettens Solicitors are excited to announce that they will be opening a brand new office in the heart of Ringwood in July 2018, making Ringwood a second home for the ever-growing Frettens family. A full service law firm for Ringwood ...
Michelle Hayter, dispute resolution partner, looks at ToLATA and the powers it gives courts when resolving disputes over ownership of land/property. Michelle looks at ToLATA in the context of unmarried couples who have seperated.
The law relating to matrimonial finances is based around the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 (subject to some much needed amendments) but does it now reflect today’s society and the financial needs of the divorcing parties? Changing times The assumptions...
Frettens Solicitors is delighted to welcome the latest Solicitor to join their ranks, as Simon Immins becomes a member of the firm's Family Team . Simon joined Frettens in April, having been a Partner at Turners Solicitors in...
In England and Wales, you must have been married for at least a year before you can apply for a divorce . Only one ground for divorce It is a popular misconception that there are five grounds for divorce. There is actually only one ground for...
Is it true that the number of divorce applications spike in January? Or is this an urban myth? Simon Immins, Family Partner, comments "Sadly, it is true to say that we see an increase in enquiries into our Family Team after Christmas about...
This week is Cohabitation Awareness week. This is promoted by Resolution, and organisation which our Family Team are a part of. What is Resolution? Resolution ’s 6,500 members are family lawyers and other professionals committed to the constructive...
A pre-nuptial agreement (or ‘pre-nup’ as they are often called) can be made between a couple before they marry, and it deals with how their assets and resources would be treated if they were to divorce or ...
If you are thinking about getting divorced , or dissolving your civil partnership , but haven’t yet filed the papers, you can get a separation agreement drawn up. This sets out who will pay the rent or mortgage and bills, until you decide whether to...
If parents are no longer living together due to separation or divorce , there are legal issues to consider if one parent wishes to take a child on holiday abroad – or even to relocate to another area. It is always preferable to obtain written...
When a couple decides to split, there is never an easy way or time to tell the children. It can sometimes be just as much of a blow when the children are grown up themselves. But are there any tactics that would make breaking the news to them less painful,...
In divorce (for a married couple) or dissolution (for a civil partnership), the pension can often be the second biggest asset – usually the family home is the biggest. You can split pensions several ways, so it’s worth understanding the options...
Head of our Family Team Andrew Stynes looks at the legality of an engagement; and the consequences of separating in relation to gifts and property ownership.
Often one of the first questions that clients ask our Family Team is how long does a divorce take? Update: As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. No-fault divorce is now...
A case has been in the news this week where a heterosexual couple have lost their case made to the Court of Appeal to have a civil partnership. Since the legislation of same-sex marriage came into force in March 2014, same-sex couples have had the choice of...
Separated women (who took their husband's surname upon marriage) often believe they have to wait until their divorce is finalised before they can revert to their maiden name. This is not correct. Any adult has the right to change their surname at any...
Being appointed as a child’s ‘Special Guardian’ gives parental responsibility for the Special Guardian for the child until the child reaches the age of 18 and exclusive responsibility for the day to day care, long term care and upbringing...
This week is Good Divorce Week. This is a week about seeking the best solutions to what can be the most difficult period that clients can go through. Resolution is a National Organisation of Family Lawyers keen to promote resolution of family separation...
Legendary darts player Phil Taylor has recently been in the press due to his divorce which has been referred to in the press as a clean break divorce. What does this mean, and is it an unusual type of settlement? Simon Immins in our Family Team offers some...
Although the main holiday season is over, half term and Christmas are looming. For families that have remarried and their children’s surname is now different to theirs this can be a problem at airports. It may be that step-parents are travelling with...
Are you separating or divorcing but your spouse or civil partner won’t agree to sell the matrimonial home?
Family solicitor Simon Immins looks at selling the matrimonial home after separation or divorce.
Thinking about separating or divorcing from your spouse or civil partner but the matrimonial home is in their sole name? As family lawyers, we are often asked by clients “I am not registered on the title deeds of the matrimonial home and my spouse or...
Theresa May, the Home Secretary, recently said that the police are still not taking domestic abuse seriously enough as a crime. In 2015 a new criminal offence of ‘coercive control’ was put on the statute books. Domestic abuse is not limited to...
I trust my spouse…we are in the process of divorcing but do I really need a clean break consent order? Family Solicitors often get asked if there is a real need for divorcing parties to enter into a clean break consent order if they are all...
Despite years of campaigning by organisations and individuals, there are few laws to protect the rights of cohabitees and bring them into line with married couples and civil partners. Under current law there is no legal protection for people who live...
Dentist, Norman Martin, failed to divorce his estranged wife despite having lived with his new partner, Joy Williams, in Dorchester of 18 years. On his death there was no provision for Joy, as Martin had failed to update his will to reflect his relationship...
Courts are to reconsider settlements made in divorce proceedings. In the above two cases both wives were able to satisfy the court that they had been misled by their ex-husbands in that both husbands had hidden their true worth from the court. Andrew...
As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. No-fault divorce is now law. Therefore, the information in this article may be outdated. Please refer to our dedicated divorce page ...
As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. No-fault divorce is now law. Therefore, the information in this article may be outdated. Please refer to our dedicated divorce page ...
As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020. No-fault divorce is now law. Therefore, the information in this article may be outdated. Please refer to our dedicated divorce page ...
As Family Lawyers this is a question we are often asked by clients. It is not as simple as a yes or no. A simple answer would, unhelpfully, be “it depends”. As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce,...
As Family Lawyers this is a question we are often asked by clients, it is, not as simple as a yes or no. A simple answer would, unhelpfully, be “it depends”. As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce,...
The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act came into force in December 2014 allowing couples in a civil partnership to get married. The most high profile of these marriages being Elton John and his partner David Furnish. As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has...
It seems to be the season for celebrity weddings and it is more than likely that many have made pre-nuptial agreements. Despite all the high hopes, best wishes and optimism on the wedding day, we are all aware that some marriages will, in time, breakdown. ...
Going through a divorce is an emotional and upsetting time often fraught with confusion about legal terms and courts. It can be a costly process for both parties. Not many people are familiar with collaborative divorce but this process and also divorce...
Surrogacy is where a child is carried through pregnancy by a woman, not necessarily the genetic mother, who has entered into an arrangement that sets out who is intended to be the legal parent of the child once it is born. As of 6th April...
The breakdown of a marriage or long term relationship is extremely upsetting for all involved. For grandparents it can be devastating if they are denied contact with their grandchildren. Unfortunately grandparents do not have an automatic right to contact...
“We want a divorce but don’t want to go to Court.” This is something that we, as family lawyers hear with increasing frequency. A Divorce can only be granted by a Court. However, frequently this is not a contentious issue and is often...
Currently, Pre-Nuptial Agreements are not strictly binding in English law. In other countries such as USA and most of Europe Pre-Nups are common enforceable contracts. There have been a number of cases which have improved the position of a Pre-Nup so they...
As part of the family justice system reforms, a new combined Family Court has been created and comes into force in England and Wales today, 22nd April 2014. Simon Hughes, the Justice Minister, said it was a “hugely important change” to what had...
At the end of July 2013, new rules were introduced for calculating child maintenance and all new applications in respect of child maintenance made after this date, are dealt with by Child Maintenance Options. As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed...
Unlike divorce, a legal separation does not put an end to the marriage, it enables you to live separately but remain married. During the time that you are living apart, you have a court order that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each spouse. You...
The Supreme Court unanimously allowed an appeal in June this year by Mrs Prest, in the case Prest v Petrodel , allowing her to obtain a share in assets held by her husband in numerous companies in his name. As of 6th April 2022 divorce...
It is not uncommon for husbands and wives or civil partners to work together in a family business and a question often asked is “What happens to the business when the relationship breaks down?” As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed...
During divorce or separation finances can take a long time to sort out and things cannot be resolved overnight, but ignoring joint finances during this difficult time and hoping things will ‘sort out’ is not the way to go. Research has revealed...
It’s important to know what your rights and responsibilities are regarding your children after a marital split. One of the most important things to ascertain is if you have parental responsibility for your children. In the case of unmarried couples you...
January 3rd has been dubbed National Divorce Day in the UK as supposedly law firms see a spike in the number of enquiries who are considering a divorce. The myth goes that, for those with cracks in their relationship, spending time with the family over the...
Heidi Cardoza, a Solicitor in our Family Team , answers some of the initial questions that people ask when they are considering a divorce or separation. As of 6th April 2022 divorce law has changed drastically, thanks to the Divorce, Dissolution and...