Blog - SPPD

Should you agree child arrangements just to keep the peace?

Legal

When parents separate, it is natural to want to avoid further conflict, particularly where emotions are high and communication has become difficult. For many parents, saying “yes” to a proposed... Read more

Woman types at keyboard preparing for family proceedings

Preparing for family proceedings: narrowing the dispute

Legal

In the second of a two-part series, senior associate Yasmin Khan-Gunns explains how preparation differs depending on if the dispute is a children case or a financial remedy case. (Not... Read more

Man at computer because he knows preparation matters in family proceedings

Why preparation matters in family proceedings

Legal

When people think about family court, they often imagine the hearing itself: the judge, the courtroom, the submissions being made, and the moment when decisions are reached. In reality, the... Read more

Dad sitting in his car parenting after separation

Parenting after separation – a parent tells his story

Parenting Post Separation

Could a programme support you parenting after separation? Parenting after separation isn't easy. No matter where you are on your separated parenting journey, a separated parenting programme can help. Perhaps... Read more

Why Separated Parenting Support Is More Important Than You Think

Parenting Post Separation

Most parents aren't prepared for separation Separation is one of those life events people rarely feel prepared for. Even when it’s the right decision, it can be emotionally draining, practically... Read more

Why Co-Parenting Matters — Even If You Can’t Stand Your Ex Because your child needs a system, not a friendship.

Parenting Post Separation

Co-parenting can feel impossible ...but Let’s say the quiet part out loud: sometimes your ex drives you up the wall. Their tone, their choices, their timing, their sheer ability to... Read more

From Law to Lasting Change: Why relationships skills are needed alongside legal skills in separation

Legal

A Turning Point 30 years ago, I was asked to come and speak about family law to a local workshop for those struggling with separation and divorce. At the time,... Read more

Separated parents colouring with their daughter

Separating Well: The Power of Child-Focused Parenting Programmes

Parenting Post Separation

Separation can be one of the most challenging times in a family’s life, but it doesn't have to define your children's future. For parents going through separation, structured separated parenting programmes offer... Read more

Parents playing football with a child. They are smiling because they understand how a separated parenting programme does and doesn't cover

What Post-Separation Parenting Programmes Don’t Do—And Why That Matters

Parenting Post Separation

Clearing up common misconceptions about parenting programmes after separation Let’s face it: separation and divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when children are involved. Gathering information at the very beginning of... Read more

Children happily laying on a rug whilst their parents are at final hearing in children proceedings

What to Expect at a Final Hearing in Children Proceedings

Legal

For separating parents: if your case is heading to a Final Hearing, here’s what to expect andhow to prepare. If agreement has not been reached at earlier stages, your case... Read more

Two little girls cross a bridge holding hands whilst their parents are at a Dispute Resolution Appointment

What to Expect at a Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA)

Legal

For separating parents: if your case could not be resolved at the first hearing, here’s what toexpect at the second stage — the Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA). If you were... Read more

Children listening. Parents wanting to know what to expect at the first dispute resolution appointment

What to Expect at the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA) in Children Proceedings

Legal

For separating parents: if you’ve made or received a court application about your child, here’s what to expect at the very first hearing — the FHDRA. If you have applied... Read more

Children happily playing football. Their separated parents have used a child arrangement orders to agree who they live with, who they spend time with or have contact with and when.

Child Arrangements Orders Explained: What They Are and When You Might Need One

Legal

For separating parents: if you're unsure what your rights are when it comes to where your child lives and how often they see the other parent, this short guide explains... Read more

Do I Have to Go to Court for Parenting Disputes?

Legal

For separating parents: if you're worried about court and wondering whether there's another way to sort out child arrangements, this guide explains what to try first. In most cases, no... Read more