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Keep up to date with the latest headlines and stories within Family Law and Divorce.
30th October 2024
10th September 2024
Published: 28th August 2024
Divorce can be one of the most challenging experiences in a person’s life, which can bring with it a degree of emotional pain and stress. It’s typically viewed as a process filled with conflict and hostility and so the whole idea of getting divorced could feel overwhelming.
Collaborative divorce offers couples an alternative route, one that prioritises co-operation and mutual agreement, allowing couples to avoid the pressure of going to court.
In this blog, we explore the process of collaborative divorce. We discuss the key benefits and potential drawbacks to help you decide if this potentially more compassionate approach could be right for you.
Published: 9th August 2024
We understand that, as a parent, your child’s well-being is your top priority. Ensuring they receive the financial support they need is an important part of that. If your child’s maintenance payments suddenly stop, this could create significant worry, as well as increased financial strain. Fortunately, there are several ways you can address the situation and restore your peace of mind. In this blog, we discuss different types of child maintenance arrangements and common issues that can lead to non-payment. We also outline helpful steps to secure payments and ensure your children’s needs are met.
Published: 31st July 2024
Can you begin a divorce in the summer holidays? And what are the benefits and drawbacks of a summer divorce?
The decision to divorce is never an easy one. If you have children, the timing of it can make things even more complex.
While divorce can happen at any time of the year, when it comes to the months of July and August, it’s often the case that couples wait until after the school holidays. But the summer is a period of extended family time when, understandably, marital tensions can increase, potentially putting more strain on relationships.
In this blog, we shed light on the considerations of initiating a divorce in the summer to help you make the right choice for you and your loved ones.
Published: 24th July 2024
After major life changes, such as divorce or separation, families often re-evaluate their current and future living arrangements. This can sometimes lead to one parent planning a move overseas with their children. ‘Child Relocation’ can be a challenging process, particularly if the other parent opposes a proposed move. If you’re planning to relocate overseas with your child, or are opposing such a move, this blog offers you a step-by-step guide to the legal process. It also signposts specialist support available that can help you achieve the outcome you desire for both you and your children.
Published: 4th July 2024
During and after divorce or separation, fostering a sense of stability and normality for children can be difficult. Making appropriate child arrangements to suit everyone can be a tricky undertaking. In this blog we explore bird nesting, a novel, child-centred approach that can offer a period of stability for families in their time of adjustment. We discuss the concept, some of the benefits and challenges, the essential, practical considerations, and tips for getting it right!
Published: 1st July 2024
Ensuring you and your family have a financially secure future is vitally important. But resolving financial matters during divorce or dissolution can be a tricky challenge. If you’re feeling daunted by the thought of dividing your assets and disentangling your financial arrangements, you’re not alone. Here, we outline the most important financial considerations, along with advice that can help pave your way to a stable future.
Published: 17th June 2024
There are all sorts of occasions in life where you could need the help of a family law solicitor and finding excellent legal support can make all the difference. The UK’s pool of legal experts is large and diverse. So, how do you go about narrowing down the field and finding a good match for you and your family? Let's delve into some sensible considerations and empowering steps you can take to find the right family lawyer for you.
Published: 14th June 2024
If you feel nervous about your initial consultation with a solicitor, you are not alone. It is a big first step and it can feel like you’re setting the official wheels in motion. Whether you’ve spent time researching your options or are acting on a recommendation from friends or family, this is your opportunity to meet the real people who could be accompanying you on your legal journey. Here we reveal the important questions you should be asking, along with our top tips for unlocking the full potential of your first meeting.
Published: 16th May 2024
In our #MeetTheTeamMonday series we get to know Anna Ferro, our head of the Beaconsfield Office and senior partner at the K J Smith Solicitors. From proud professional moments to personal references, learn what Anna has to share.
Published: 15th May 2024
The process of becoming a parent through surrogacy involves complex legal considerations and terminology. There are two main methods for conception: In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and Artificial Insemination.
Surrogacy can be traditional, where the surrogate's eggs are used, or gestational, where the surrogate carries the genetic mother's material. UK law states that the legal mother of a baby born via surrogacy is the one who gives birth, regardless of genetic connection. If the surrogate is married, their spouse will be considered the legal parent. If the surrogate is not married, the intended father can become the legal father, and the surrogate can elect another person to be registered as the second parent.
Published: 13th May 2024
Deciding to end a marriage is a difficult choice for most people. The initial steps are often the most challenging, and it can be a painful and unsettling process. Even if a couple has been separated for a while, it can be upsetting to start the official process. To begin your divorce journey, it's essential to know what to expect, plan a suitable path forward, and seek professional support.
Published: 18th April 2024
KJ Smith Solicitors has established an Emerging Leaders programme in 2022 to foster a culture of excellence and innovation. The two-year programme aims to fast-track individuals and provide them with the necessary skills and resources to transition from Emerging Leaders to Leaders, successfully leading a team and running their office.
The programme identifies and nurtures future leaders, providing support, training, and mentorship to help each leader excel and reach new heights in their career. Every Emerging Leader has a unique journey, and Beth Pettifer is an Associate Solicitor who was made an Emerging Leader in 2023 after being trained as a future leader without knowing it. Now on the programme, she meets with other Emerging Leaders to brainstorm, share ideas, and improve their offices. The goal is for Beth to graduate as a Leader and officially head up the Woodley office. Robyn Bowyer is a Partner and Head of the Southampton office, who graduated from the Emerging Leader programme in 2023 and now manages a team of three. Both Leaders and Emerging Leaders meet every quarter at an off-site training day to develop their leadership skills and discuss company updates. The Emerging Leaders programme provides the necessary support to develop and grow as a leader, according to Associate Solicitor Beth Pettifer.
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Whether you are considering a move now or at some point in the future, we would love to hear from you and learn more about your career goals and motivations.
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Partner at our Ascot office
"I joined K J Smith with an open mind and with the expectation of developing and adding diversity and challenge to my career, having spent 23 years in a comfortable position with a traditional high street practice.
I can honestly say that K J Smith have exceeded my expectations. Since joining, I have felt supported and encouraged by the firm’s continued commitment to growth and improvement. The company allow staff at all levels to have a voice and recognise the importance of investment in their employees at every level."
