eBriefs - Dispute Resolution
Missteps and misunderstandings: the hidden risks in modern break-ups
Christmas is the time for coming together, but January has long been known in family law circles as ‘Divorce Month’, with a surge of enquiries as relationship tensions rise to the surface during the festive period. Financial pressure, childcare strain and the intensity of family gatherings mean that for many couples, the season of good cheer becomes the point at which problems can no longer be ignored.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process whereby two parties have discussions in order to try and reach agreement. A mediator is a neutral party to the negotiations and has the role of facilitating discussions. It is important to note that a family law mediator will not tell you what you should do nor will they make decisions for you. In a family law context, mediation is often used in matters relating to financial settlements (following a divorce or separation) or the arrangements in respect of children.
Shareholders' Agreements
A shareholders’ agreement is a private document between shareholders containing terms agreed to by the shareholders. Their purpose is to ensure that issues which can potentially arise within a company are identified in advance and mechanisms are provided to address them, facilitating the efficient operation and management of the company, thereby avoiding costly disputes in the future.
Negotiating Christmas for Separated Parents
For parents who are separated or divorced, the festive season can be especially sensitive. While Christmas often brings joy and celebration, it can also evoke strong emotions and logistical issues regarding where children will stay and how finances will be handled.
Surrogacy in the UK: Understanding the Law and the Process
Surrogacy enables people to build a family where pregnancy is not possible or medically advisable. It is legal in the UK, but the rules on parenthood, consent, and payments are strict and very different from many other countries.