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If you are thinking about separating or getting divorced, you should not leave the marital home without first speaking to a family solicitor about your rights. Getting advice on whether you should be the one to leave the family home is crucial to protect your rights.

Worrying about whether you can stay in the family home if you separate is one of the main reasons why people take legal advice from a family solicitor. Understanding your family law rights is the first step in helping you make informed decisions about your separation and divorce.

As Family Mediation Week 2023 (16th – 20th January 2023) commences, separating couples are encouraged to avoid costly and lengthy courtroom conflict by using mediation as an alternative dispute resolution method.

Although it is recognised that a transfer of residence may cause short-term emotional harm to the child, the court may conclude that this is preferable to prevent further parental alienation.

This week (28th November 2 December) is “Good Divorce Week” a campaign by the Resolution group for family lawyers. The aim is to highlight the many ways in which divorcing couples can avoid stressful and costly court proceedings.

Yes, family mediation vouchers are still available. Since the successful roll-out of the mediation voucher scheme to help separating couples resolve disputes outside of court, the government has added £5.4 million of extra funding and extended the scheme.

Eligibility for the Mediation Voucher Scheme is not means tested, meaning it doesn’t matter how much income you receive, however, your case must in part involve discussions about making arrangements for children.

If you decide to proceed with family mediation and you are eligible for the ‘£500 voucher’ contribution, subject to suitability and matter type, your family mediator will then apply for the voucher funding.

Since the Government announced that they are extending the Mediation Voucher Scheme with an extra £5.4 million in funding, many couples will be eligible for £500 worth of vouchers towards the cost of mediation.