In an effort to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of private law proceedings in family courts, the UK government introduced the Private Law Pathfinder Pilot. The recently published process evaluation looks at the pilot’s impact, highlighting key successes, ongoing challenges,…
Family Court Trends in 2024
The landscape of family law in England and Wales continues to evolve, with 2024 bringing notable trends in divorce applications, orders to prevent domestic abuse, and private law cases. The latest statistics provide insights into the shifts in family court…
Divorce and the Accelerated First Appointment Procedure

Going through a divorce can be stressful and expensive. But there is a way to make the process quicker and cheaper. It’s called the Accelerated First Appointment Procedure, and it can help couples move forward without unnecessary delays. What is…
Stopping a child maintenance order or a global maintenance order
Does your final financial order contain a child maintenance order or a global maintenance order, and 12 months have passed since that order was made? If so, you are entitled to apply for an assessment of child maintenance via the…
Are finances always split 50/50 in a divorce?
It is a really common misconception that finances are automatically split 50/50 in a divorce. It is actually quite rare that this happens when it comes to housing. The reason it is rare, is that 50/50 equal sharing of assets…
Assisting Clients with Autism in Navigating the Family Court

At Rainscourt Family Law Solicitors, we are acutely aware of the unique challenges that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may face when dealing with the family court system. This recognition is echoed by our listing as a recommended resource…
Unmarried with Children: Securing Your Financial Rights
When it comes to family law, many people think the rules and rights only apply to married couples. However, if you’re unmarried with children, you also have certain legal financial rights, particularly if the other parent is a high earner…
Trusts and Divorce: Protecting Family Wealth and Ensuring Financial Stability
In divorce proceedings, particularly for high-net-worth couples, safeguarding family wealth and ensuring financial stability for children is of paramount importance. Trusts can play a crucial role in achieving these objectives, as they offer a means to protect assets, minimise tax…
Shared Parenting and Child Arrangements

Shared parenting, also known as joint custody or co-parenting, is an arrangement in which both parents actively participate in raising their child after separation or divorce. This approach aims to foster a healthy and supportive environment for the child, ensuring…
What is a SPIP? What is Planning Together for Children?
You may have been told by the Family Court that you must attend a SPIP course. This is a Separated Parents Information Programme, which the court can order parents to attend if they are involved in court proceedings. The purpose…