1. What is the current legal landscape for Family Law in your jurisdiction?

The family courts of England and Wales continue to operate under considerable strain, a consequence of sustained underfunding and a rise in litigants in person pursuing applications due to the increasing cost of legal representation. Alongside these systemic challenges, the judiciary’s growing commitment to transparency in private proceedings has contributed to a broader shift in the resolution of family disputes, with an increasing number of parties now opting for out-of-court alternatives.

The expectation that families will explore non-court pathways before issuing proceedings has further encouraged the use of mediation, private Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) hearings, early neutral evaluation, and arbitration. These processes are often more time-efficient, discreet, and flexible — qualities particularly valued by high net worth and international clients seeking to maintain privacy and control over the outcome of their matters.

Recent judicial developments have continued to shape the financial landscape of family law. The decision in Standish v Standish revisited the distinction between matrimonial and non-matrimonial property, providing valuable guidance on how non-matrimonial assets may become “matrimonialised” through their treatment and use during a marriage. The judgment serves as a reminder of the nuanced approach the courts adopt when determining the appropriate division of wealth, particularly where pre-acquired, inherited, or business assets are concerned.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Potanina v Potanin has further underscored the continuing relevance of Part III of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act 1984. The decision clarifies the ties required to England that enable the court to intervene and grant financial relief following an overseas divorce where there exists a sufficient, even limited, connection to this jurisdiction. This development offers reassurance to internationally mobile families that England and Wales remains a forum capable of ensuring fairness where an overseas outcome may fall short of meeting needs or achieving a just result.

Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements have likewise continued to gain traction, reflecting the courts’ sustained endorsement of autonomy in financial arrangements. Provided the principles set out in Radmacher v Granatino are satisfied, such agreements will generally be upheld as binding. The Court of Appeal’s decision in Helliwell v Entwistle reaffirmed the central importance of full and frank financial disclosure in their negotiation and execution, highlighting that transparency and procedural fairness remain essential to their enforceability.

2. What three essential pieces of advice would you give to clients involved in Family Law matters?

1. Work with the available processes, not against them. Whenever possible, engage with non-court dispute resolution (NCDR) options such as mediation or arbitration. These methods can help manage costs and often lead to outcomes that are mutually agreed upon, rather than imposed by the court.
2. Be open and honest in your disclosures. Withholding information during financial proceedings can have far-reaching consequences, including increased costs, unnecessary delays, and emotional strain. These delays can particularly affect children and the overall wellbeing of everyone involved.
3. If you live or work across multiple jurisdictions, seek specialist advice early. Understanding the wider implications is essential, especially when it comes to nuptial agreements and financial settlements following divorce. Taking a holistic approach ensures your interests are protected across all relevant legal systems.

3. What are the greatest threats and opportunities in Family law in the next 12 months?

Limited judicial availability and delays in court applications can often lead to families accepting outcomes that are unsatisfactory or unfair, which may discourage clients from pursuing legal remedies. Additionally, there is a common misconception that out-of-court resolution options are more costly than court proceedings, although this is generally not the case.

This situation creates a valuable opportunity for family lawyers to educate clients about the advantages of alternative dispute resolution methods. By creatively combining various out-of-court options, legal professionals can facilitate more effective and tailored solutions, unlocking significant benefits for family clients.

4. How do you ensure high client satisfaction levels are maintained by your practice?

Client satisfaction lies at the heart of everything we do. Our team is dedicated to understanding each client’s unique circumstances, taking the time to listen carefully and provide clear, compassionate guidance. We recognise that every family is different, and we tailor our approach to ensure each client follows the process that best supports their individual needs and goals.

Our strength lies in the depth and diversity of our expertise. We bring together leading specialists across all areas of domestic and international family law, including financial matters, children law, abduction, surrogacy, and adoption. This collaborative approach allows us to offer a seamless and comprehensive service — one that combines technical excellence with empathy, discretion, and genuine care.

Whether guiding clients through complex cross-border issues or supporting them through sensitive family matters, we are committed to delivering the highest standard of service, ensuring that every client feels informed, supported, and confident in the path ahead.

5. What technological advancements are reshaping Family law and how can clients benefit from them?

Innovation continues to shape the practice of family law, with technology and artificial intelligence (AI) playing an increasingly significant role in how clients engage with legal services. Many individuals are now turning to AI tools to gain a preliminary understanding of their legal options before seeking professional advice. While this shift offers clear advantages in terms of accessibility and efficiency, it also presents certain risks. It is therefore essential that clients recognise AI as a supportive tool designed to assist informed discussions, rather than as a replacement for tailored legal advice. When used appropriately, AI can enhance the client experience by providing high-quality, easily accessible information that complements professional guidance.

Recent technological developments have also introduced sophisticated methods for identifying falsified documentation in court proceedings. AI-driven systems are now capable of analysing and detecting irregularities within documents, exposing even the most advanced forms of forgery. This capability represents a significant advancement in safeguarding the integrity of evidence and offers considerable reassurance to clients where authenticity is in question. Over time, such technology is likely to serve as a strong deterrent against the submission of fraudulent material in family law matters.

Advancements in digital tools have also transformed communication between separated parents. Modern parenting applications, designed to facilitate constructive co-parenting, now incorporate features capable of assessing the tone of written communication. These platforms provide a secure and structured environment for parents to share information about their children, reducing the potential for conflict and promoting healthier, more effective communication.

Together, these innovations demonstrate the growing importance of technology in enhancing both the efficiency and integrity of family law practice. As these tools continue to evolve, practitioners and clients alike stand to benefit from a more transparent, informed, and accessible legal process.