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Are cohabitation agreements and nuptial agreements worth it?

By Family, Children & Divorce

With nearly a quarter of UK couples now cohabiting instead of marrying, the importance of cohabitation agreements has never been greater. Contrary to popular belief, “common law marriage” offers no legal protection in the UK, leaving unmarried partners vulnerable if they separate. A cohabitation agreement can provide clarity on financial arrangements, property ownership, and each partner’s rights, helping to avoid costly disputes and ensuring peace of mind.

Children Act applications amid conflict: The impact of the Ukraine war on Family Court decisions

By Family, Children & Divorce, Machins News

The ongoing war in Ukraine has had profound consequences for families, as illustrated by the case of Re Z and X (Visit to Ukraine) [2024] EWHC 314. In this emotional case, a father applied for his children to visit him in Ukraine, despite the ongoing conflict. The Family Court ultimately ruled against the visit, prioritizing the children’s safety and emotional wellbeing. This case sheds light on how the English courts navigate the challenges of family contact in the face of extreme circumstances, like war, and the lasting effects on separated families.

Family Court lift anonymity in family judgment on a financial claim brought against a Premier League footballer by the mother of his two children

By Family, Children & Divorce, Machins News

A judgment has been made public in a case involving a celebrity influencer, Lauryn Goodman, who brought a financial claim under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989 against her former partner and England footballer, Kyle Walker.  The pair, who have two children together, were in Court for a two-day final hearing on 16th and

Child arrangements for Father’s Day

By Family, Children & Divorce

Father’s Day is a special day to be enjoyed with children and family however unfortunately the day can be difficult for some fathers who are unable to spend the day with their child. Whilst it is hoped that most separated parents would be able to agree the arrangements for special dates such as Father’s/Mother’s Day,

Changes in the Family Procedure Rules steer parties away from the court room and towards non-court dispute resolution.   

By Family, Children & Divorce

From 29th April 2024, there are significant changes to the Family Procedure Rules, promoting the court’s powers to encourage parties to attend non-court dispute resolution at every stage in proceedings, for matters involving children and/or a financial dispute.     The court will require parties to file and serve Form FM5, setting out their views on

Successful application for termination of Parental Responsibility

By Family, Children & Divorce

Termination of Parental Responsibility is rarely made by the Court and only ever in exceptional circumstances. Following a recent private family law case acting for a mother who successfully obtained a termination of Parental Responsibility order to end the father’s Parental Responsibility, we asked Laura Martin-Read, Senior Associate Solicitor to explain what Parental Responsibility is

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