Family Law Court Support UK

17/04/2022

Many parents come to me for help because they need someone who is detached and has no vested interest in the outcome of their journey.

Most lack confidence, it’s completely understandable. Many just use my services to boost their confidence and point them in the right direction.

Be confident.

18/02/2022

A question I’m often asked surrounds parental responsibility.

Do you have parental responsibility if you’re not named a child’s birth certificate?

The answer isn’t straightforward as non-biological parents can obtain parental responsibility and even others. The court would need to make an order for that though.

Even if you’re not named on your child’s birth certificate, it doesn’t mean that cannot be changed either by consent or court order.

Sometimes parents are awarded parental responsibility by court and the birth certificate is never amended.

14/02/2022

Another successful application today, a slightly unusual application for a step-parent. They had played an active role in there step-son's life since birth and always treated them as their own. The child's father had been and continues to be absent.

Unfortunately, the relationship with the child's mother broke down. After a long relationship they separated. This was an extremely distressing and emotive time for all concerned, not least the child that had become to love and recognise my client as their "father".

Making an application of this nature is not something that should be done lightly, there are a number of factors that must be considered.

Today, after a positive CAFCASS report, the court decided that the child SHOULD have contact with my client and made an order to reflect their wishes and feelings.

Contact starts this weekend, whilst it does not include overnight care (my client never asked for that) it does mean they can go to watch the football together, something that they love doing.

Have an amazing week!!

09/02/2022

Are you a litigant in person for family matters within the family court?

Are you lost in jargon or have lost direction? Are things spiralling out of control?

I offer a consultancy service for those who cannot afford the full cost of a McKenzie friend to attend court with you.

All consultations take place via Microsoft Teams and are recorded. A copy is provided to you after the session.

Get in touch via WhatsApp or message the page. Links are on the website.

08/02/2022

No fault divorce from 6th April 2022 …

Under current legislation parties can only apply for a divorce, if they prove to the court that their marriage has irretrievably broken down and that one of the 5 facts are relevant to their marriage breakdown. In short, an element of blame must be put on the receiving party of the application (unless they are relying on separation). This has been known to add unnecessary animosity, stress and increased costs to an already fragile situation. Under the new legislation, the fault element will be removed. A welcome change for many.

Under the new legislation, couples can divorce without having to cite blame. They will no longer need to rely on one of the 5 facts (behaviour, adultery, 5 years separation, 2 years separation with consent, desertion).

Currently, only one spouse can apply for the divorce. The new system will allow both parties to apply on a joint and amicable basis

Often people avoid making that final separation of marriage due to a confusing process.

Hopefully, this will allow people to move on with their lives.

07/02/2022

It is always nice to get feedback …

Today, I appeared before a circuit judge with a litigant. This was the third time I’ve been before this judge with different parents. He recognised me straight away, exchanged pleasantries.

Permission was given for me to remain. The judge commented that even if there had been objections he would of had no difficulty in overruling them.

After a long day of negotiations with the other parties counsel, we thrashed out an order that left nothing to chance.

On return before the judge, he approved the order. Addressed parents on their passion for their children. Thanked counsel for her hard work and turned his attention to me. Commenting

“McKenzie friends come in all different shapes and sizes. Some help, some do not. I just want to thank you for the amazing work you do supporting parents. You are professional, you have a good knowledge of family court and your child focussed approach is simply inspiring. You will always be welcome in my court”

Sometimes the role of a McKenzie friend can be difficult. As a parent, I know what clients go through. A rollercoaster of emotions that take you by surprise sometimes.

07/11/2021

It is even more important than ever to make sure your application to family court has merit and alternative dispute resolution methods are attempted first. Once you reach the stage any order is being considered, taking time to make certain it is fit for purpose will limit further applications.

“Parents who bring vexatious claims to the family courts will face financial penalties under plans being drawn up by the government”

“He believes making mediation the default would free up judges to deal with serious cases, such as those concerning domestic abuse. One option understood to be under consideration is measures to make it easier to award substantial legal costs against the parent thought to be abusing the court system for their own interests”

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/3af36318-3f4c-11ec-b903-910fd4392181?shareToken=caa8e30930c1c448a2ec38e0195e3488&fbclid=IwAR3OZZkRoOFrfPoEm9SlF7Ixh6s2oHSYpwg8MyO00zo9S_40x7b408fDLzQ

Parents who bring vexatious claims to the family courts will face financial penalties under plans being drawn up by the government.Dominic Raab, the justice sec

23/07/2021

A comprehensive report into false allegations in the family court. More disturbing is the cost of average representation of £32’000.

https://www.upfederation.org/blog/our-blog-1/false-allegations-in-family-court-results-2?fbclid=IwAR1Ajg0cjS6DmzocmsQrB8FEU7DuKFWBEmJVxu1ciiJtUqgsz1QY2h486tk

13/07/2021

Another application brought to a conclusion today in a full day final hearing.

Increase in contact from previous order and successfully defended an application to prevent further applications.

Once you really look at what you set out to achieve and get back to basics this really comes across to the court. They’re far more willing to listen.

09/07/2021

When choosing a McKenzie Friend you should always feel comfortable with the person you are going to work with.

A good McKenzie should always have the following:

🌟 A CV that details their experience, a court will appreciate that being provided.

🌟 Terms of Business setting out responsibilities

🌟 Insurance is always helpful, having insurance can show you your McKenzie is committed and organised

🌟 A website also demonstrates they are committed and organised

I have all of the above, I can demonstrate my knowledge and reviews show my ability.

If your McKenzie cannot show the above - are they even a McKenzie Friend 🤔

05/07/2021

A Section 7 report is one of the most common reports a court will ask to be carried out in respect of children.

A court can either as CAFCASS (Child and Family Court Advisory Support Service) or the local authority to complete the report.

The report must be accurate and look at the 7 key aspects of the Welfare Checklist.

Recommendations at the end of the report will guide the court in making any order. A report can be challenged. Ask me how for guidance.