The Child Maintenance Service, known as the CMS, deals with the majority of instances where child maintenance payments are needed. Parents can apply to the CMS for a child maintenance assessment which specifies how much they are to pay or receive. Where there are divorce proceedings, parents can agree a Child Maintenance Order, which specifies the sum that one parent is to pay the other in child maintenance. This is usually a sum that is higher than the CMS calculation. However, in … [Read more...]
I want a divorce – Do I need a solicitor?
I want a divorce but do I need a solicitor? The launch of the online divorce scheme a few years ago has led to a greater increase in individuals representing themselves. Understandably, cost can be an issue when instructing a solicitor and it is therefore important that costs are completely transparent. It is of course possible to issue your own divorce proceedings, however without professional knowledge it is quite easy to overlook various issues which may lead to divorce petitions being … [Read more...]
Family Mediation Week: 17-21 January 2022
Family Mediation Week takes place this year between 17-21 January 2022 to raise awareness of the benefits of family mediation and how it can help separating families manage their issues productively. The family mediation week campaign is organised by the Family Mediation Council (FMC). They have produced plenty of activities to be involved with during family mediation week. This includes a launch event with the government minister with responsibility for mediation Lord Wolfson. More … [Read more...]
Divorce Monday: The busiest day of the year?
The first working Monday in January after the festive period has become known within the family law profession as ‘Divorce Monday’. Christmas can be a very stressful time for lots of couples for many different reasons. It is usually a difficult time financially which can take its toll on the marriage. Financial concerns are the cause of 1 in 10 marriage breakdowns. It is also a time of year when couples spend a lot of time together, often causing strain. These common issues mixed … [Read more...]
Improvements to the way the family court responds to domestic abuse announced
Domestic abusers – not their victims - to be moved from the family home? In response to calls from charities and campaign groups, councils in England have been considering measures to provide housing for domestic abusers, allowing victims to remain living in the former matrimonial home. The Domestic Abuse Act, which was recently passed by Parliament, compels councils to devise plans to provide housing support for victims and their children. Some Councils, such as Sunderland City Council, … [Read more...]