UK By Lawyers author Robin Charrot of Evolve Family Law has just completed a comprehensive review of the Divorce publication. He notes that the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill was introduced June 2019 and has passed through a second reading in parliament. Whilst the actual introduction date is as yet unclear, he forewarns there will be a need for significant changes to the Family Procedure Rules to enable the legislation. By Lawyers is keenly watching the progress of these changes and will update the publication again as and when they come into effect.

The Nuptial agreements publication was recently reviewed by UK author Robin Charrot of Evolve Family Law with particular focus on law and practice as it currently applies to nuptial and cohabitation agreements in England and Wales. Although there is no indication that legislation is imminent regarding binding Qualifying Nuptial Agreements as envisioned by The Law Commission, By Lawyers continues to maintain a watching brief over all UK legislation to keep users informed and our publications up to date.

Following user feedback, a new letter has been added to the Divorce publication providing advice on judicial separation as an alternative to divorce or dissolution.

Interim guidance has been issued to enable an extension of the statutory 26-week deadline in guardianship proceedings. The guidance has been issued by the Family Justice Council and approved by the President of the Family Division, Sir Andrew McFarlane. Read more...

Legal Aid Regulations have been amended to exclude payments made under the Windrush Compensation Scheme as income or capital in determining the eligibility of legal aid.

The Domestic Violence Orders publication has been expanded to include additional information about Legal Aid funding, some new precedent letters, and ready access to the Legal Aid Agency forms. Read more...

The library of precedents within the financial settlements publication in family law has been increased in order to assist solicitors when preparing documents for financial settlement proceedings. Read more...