Policy briefing September 2018
As we edge closer to securing no-fault divorce this policy briefing looks at developments in court modernisation, supporting vulnerable people and reform for cohabiting couples.
News
Keep up with all Resolution’s news, including announcements on our latest events and resources, key policy updates and news from our members.
For journalists writing about family law, we have a number of spokespeople available for comment. To arrange an interview or get further information on family law issues, email our Communications team on: press@resolution.org.uk
Resolution comments on the Supreme Court judgement on Widowed Parent’s Allowance
Letter to the Guardian: Cohabiting couples need greater legal protection
Resolution's joint letter to the Guardian highlighting the need for basic rights for cohabiting couples upon relationship breakdown.
As wedding season hits its annual peak, thousands opt out of saying ‘I do’
This Saturday (18 August) is set to be the most popular day this year for weddings in England and Wales. However, the number of people who decide to walk down the aisle continues to fall as more couples chose to live together unmarried.
Supreme Court rules woman ‘must stay married’ as family law experts warn of ‘divorce crisis’
Divorce denied by Supreme Court today forces Mrs Owens to remain married to Mr Owens against her will.Call on politicians from all parties to back measures to reform outdated laws.1.7m people compelled to apportion blame in divorce since failed attempt to provide no-fault divorce option in 1996.
Resolution welcomes Parliamentary report on “highly ambitious” courts modernisation programme
The Public Accounts Committee has today published its report following its enquiry into the HMCTS Transforming Courts and Tribunals Programme. The report calls the £1.2 billion modernisation programme “highly ambitious” and says “there is a significant risk that HMCTS will fail to deliver the benefits it expects”
Resolution, The Law Society and Women’s Aid issue joint call to Government to urgently ban cross-examination of victims by their abusers in the family courts
Resolution, The Law Society and Women’s Aid have issued a joint call to the government to urgently bring forward promised legislation banning the cross-examination of domestic abuse victims by alleged perpetrators in the family courts, ahead of a parliamentary debate on the progress in protecting victims of domestic abuse in the family courts today (Wednesday 18thJuly).
Resolution comments on the Supreme Court civil partnerships judgement
Speaking about this morning’s Supreme Court judgment in favour of civil partnerships for opposite sex couples, Graeme Fraser, Chair of Resolution’s Cohabitation Committee, said:
Resolution lawyer Tony McGovern celebrated as Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year
Resolution lawyer Tony McGovern of Creighton & Partners was celebrated by his peers last night, receiving a Legal Aid Lawyer of the Year (LALY) award in the Family (including mediation) category. He has been practicing for over 20 years, specialising in cases of utmost complexity. His clients are often troubled and damaged and in 2017 he successfully appealed a court circuit decision, giving a mother and her children the chance to have their Article 6 rights upheld.
Policy Briefing June 2018
Our June 2018 Policy Brief looks at developments in court modernisation, no-fault divorce, Brexit and cohabiting couples.