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Keep up to date with the latest headlines and stories within Family Law and Divorce.
19th March 2025
4th March 2025
Published: 20th February 2025
When a loved one passes away, their Will is often seen as their final word on how their estate should be distributed. But what if circumstances change, or someone feels the Will doesn’t reflect the deceased’s true wishes? Is there really a way to adjust the terms of their Will after death?
The answer lies in a legal tool called a Deed of Variation.
In this article, we’ll explain what a Deed of Variation is, how it works, and answer some of the most common questions about changing a Will after someone has died. We’ll also shed light on what happens if someone passes away without a Will in place.
Published: 17th February 2025
The end of a marriage or a long-term relationship can often feel like a bereavement.
The sense of loss can be profound, leaving you grappling with emotions you may not have expected to feel - even if you were the one to initiate the separation.
People often assume that once the process is over, they’ll feel deep relief and be ready to move on. But many find themselves experiencing feelings of sadness, loneliness, or even regret. These emotions can be difficult to process, particularly if others seemingly expect you to "be okay" once all the formalities are over.
In this article, we explore why divorce often feels like a bereavement. While it’s natural to experience these emotions, things do get better. We provide practical steps to help you move forward with confidence.
Published: 27th January 2025
When relationships break down, finding resolutions and coming to an agreement on the issues that arise can sometimes feel daunting.
Mediation is increasingly being used as a method of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). When you begin the process of divorce or separation, it’s natural to have concerns about how mediation works and whether it will work for you. You may be asking yourself: How should I prepare? How will it unfold? Is mediation even the right option for us? These feelings are entirely normal, and no question is too small or unimportant.
Published: 7th January 2025
The festive season is usually a time for joy, togetherness and goodwill – or at least that’s the idea. Yet, for many couples, it’s a time that can highlight underlying tensions, leaving one or both of you starting the New Year wondering if your relationship has reached the end of the line.
January is sometimes nicknamed ‘Divorce Month’, and many people reading this blog may know someone whose partner walked out over Christmas or on New Year’s Day, but if it is you now feeling the post-Christmas blues in regard to your relationship, how do you know if you actually do want a divorce, or are just feeling a bit ‘divorcey’?
This article explores some scenarios that could lead you to have doubts about your relationship. We offer advice on how to reflect and gain perspective, so you can decide upon your next steps with clarity.
Published: 13th December 2024
Starting a new role can be both exciting and challenging but, for Sarah Beale, her first year as a paralegal at K J Smith Solicitors has been nothing short of transformative.
Joining the Basingstoke office at the start of 2024, Sarah has embraced the opportunities, challenges and rewards that come with working in Family Law. Reflecting on her journey so far, she shares her highlights, aspirations for the future and what makes KJS a standout place to work.
Published: 13th December 2024
If you have recently been through a separation or divorce, Christmas may look and feel a little different for you this year. It's only natural to feel uncertain about what lies ahead.
Whether you're suddenly single again, or sharing custody of your children and spending Christmas without them for the first time, these changes can stir up a mix of emotions for everyone involved. However, you are on a path well-trodden by others before you. This blog offers practical tips and words of encouragement to help you navigate your way through the festive period.
Published: 4th December 2024
When you hear the words “divorce” and “solicitor”, it’s common for terms like “expense” and “conflict” to spring to mind. It’s no surprise that couples often consider a Do-it-Yourself (DIY) divorce before exploring other options. Whilst a DIY divorce might appear cost-effective on the surface, it does carry risk and there can be serious consequences when couples don’t take legal advice.
In this blog, we shine a spotlight on DIY divorce and explore the pitfalls and lessons learned by three real-life “DIY divorcees”.
Published: 28th November 2024
Divorce (or dissolution of a civil partnership) is a significant life decision and it’s natural to have questions about how it may impact your finances, especially during a cost-of-living crisis. While every situation is unique, separating doesn’t have to be as daunting or costly as you might fear. In fact, many people find that with the right guidance and support, they can navigate the process smoothly and start building a positive future.
In this blog, we explore ways to manage the costs of a separation in challenging economic times. We also offer practical ways to keep solicitor fees to a minimum, helping you take proactive steps towards your future; without overspending.
Published: 30th October 2024
So many of us put off writing our Wills, perhaps because we feel uncomfortable talking about death or simply believe it’s something to tackle later on in life. But making a Will is one of the most important and beneficial things you can do for yourself and your family. After all, life doesn’t follow a set timeline. There are many moments along the way which present great opportunities to put a Will in place – you could be starting a family, buying a home, or simply planning for the future. Creating a Will while you’re younger ensures the ones you care about most will be protected, whatever happens and whenever it happens, so that your assets go to the right people. In this blog, we explain why you shouldn’t put off making your Will, as well as the serious implications of dying without one.
Published: 24th September 2024
If you are splitting up with your partner, it’s natural that you may feel concerned by the prospects of conflict, a (potentially costly) legal battle, and emotional strain. ‘Talking things through’ may be a great way to resolve issues in many aspects of life but, when it comes to separation and divorce, that can feel like the hardest thing to do.
This is where mediation comes in. It’s a process where a neutral person, “the mediator”, helps you and your partner to communicate so that you reach agreements and avoid going to court. In this blog, we explain the key benefits of mediation and discuss how collaborating – from as early as day one – can bring real advantages for you and your family.
Published: 10th September 2024
Surrogacy in the UK is built on a foundation of trust and selflessness, with surrogates offering the chance for intended parents to experience the joy of parenthood when they’re unable to carry a child themselves. While surrogacy might seem like a personal arrangement that can be managed privately, the legal complexities involved are significant and cannot be overlooked. Understanding surrogacy law and the necessary legal procedures will be crucial for everyone from the very beginning.
Eleanor Tanner is a specialist solicitor here at K J Smith with extensive expertise and an avid interest in surrogacy law. She recently presented on the topic to the Ovom Clinic, a team of world class fertility specialists. In this blog, we’ll summarise Eleanor’s key points, explore why early legal advice is essential and discuss the vital role experts like her play in ensuring a smooth and legally compliant surrogacy process.
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.
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