Advertise on podcast: Explaining family law

Changing the locks might seem like the obvious solution after a separation, but the reality is often more complicated. In this episode, Jen Is joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Anthony Cule, where they explore why changing the locks may not address the underlying problem and what to think about before taking that step.  The discussion focuses on understanding what's driving the request, including whether it's about privacy or safety, and encourages looking beyond the immediate solution. It also covers the importance of trying to reach an agreement with the other property owner, including whether they will return or, if they are still living in the property, whether they would agree to move out. The episode finishes by considering what happens to the property in the long term.  To find out more about how we can help, visit: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

One of the many questions people ask after divorce is whether they can change their will as soon as they separate, or if they have to wait until the divorce is finalised. In this episode, Tim is joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Abbie Green, who has experience in both family and private client teams, to explain why reviewing your will immediately on separation is advised and how a codicil can provide a short-term fix while finances are still being agreed. Together they discuss what can happen if a will isn’t updated during separation, including an ex-spouse inheriting or acting as executor or trustee, and how the law treats a former spouse once divorce is final. The conversation also covers risks like intestacy, possible claims by children or dependents, aligning wills with financial orders, and updating lasting powers of attorney, pension nominations, and life insurance. Find out more about our team can help: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

One of the many questions people ask after divorce is whether their name can be changed. In this episode, Tim Whitney is joined by Mills & Reeve Principal Associate Kerry Haugh, to explain what happens to names after separation and divorce. Kerry confirms that divorce does not automatically change a person’s name, and that you can keep your married name if you wish.   She outlines how to revert to a maiden or previous name by providing the final order (or decree absolute) alongside a marriage certificate and explains that a deed poll is a written declaration only needed when changing to a new name that isn’t a return to a previous one. The episode also covers how changing a child’s name requires agreement from everyone with parental responsibility, or a court application for a specific issue order. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DdvFkftUhD8 Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

In this episode of the Explaining Family Law podcast, Jen is joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Rebecca Latham to discuss what happens when separated parents want to take a child abroad on holiday. They explain that the key starting point is parental responsibility and that, in most cases, consent from everyone with parental responsibility is needed for each trip, ideally confirmed in writing with full travel details and reassurance about return.  Rebecca outlines the main exception where a child arrangements order states the child lives with one parent, allowing travel abroad for up to 28 days without the other parent’s consent unless the order says otherwise. The episode also covers what to do if consent is refused, including discussion, mediation, solicitor involvement, and applying to court for a specific issue order, as well as common concerns such as safety, abduction risks, dual citizenship, and travel to non-Hague Convention countries. Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/CCUqTsBvMZM To find out more about how we can help, visit: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/children/holidays-abroad/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Working with a lawyer during separation can be daunting, especially if it’s your first time. In this episode, Tim and Jen share their top tips for making the process smoother and more effective. They break down three key areas: preparing for your first meeting, communicating efficiently with your lawyer, and collaborating on documents. The discussion covers practical advice on setting meeting expectations, organising information, managing communication preferences, and handling financial disclosure. Listeners will learn how to personalise their approach, reduce costs, and make the legal process less overwhelming, turning a challenging time into a more manageable experience. Find out more how our family lawyers can help you through separation: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Every January, headlines scream about a surge in break‑ups after the holidays – but is the first Monday really the tipping point for marriages? In this episode, Tim and Jen tackle one of the biggest myths in the media: Divorce Day. They discuss the notion that the first Monday after the Christmas and New Year break sees a surge of divorce enquiries. Analysing Mills & Reeve data from recent years, they reveal that January is not necessarily the busiest month for divorce enquiries. The conversation covers data patterns, media influence, and the thoughtful decision-making process behind divorce. Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Navigating divorce is never easy, but when multiple jurisdictions are involved, the process can quickly become overwhelming. In this episode, Tim and Jen are joined by Chloe Oudiz, a divorce coach and author of 'Don't Screw Up Your Divorce.' Chloe shares her extensive background, including her experience as a divorcee navigating multiple jurisdictions and cross-border parenting arrangements. Chloe explains how these experiences led her to become a divorce coach and discusses the three pillars of her 'divorce differently' methodology: planning and preparation, negotiation skills, and deescalating conflict. The conversation also covers the unique challenges faced by international couples and the importance of communication throughout the divorce process and beyond. Listeners can expect practical advice on how to approach divorce as a less destructive and more family-centred opportunity for a fresh start. Find out more about Chloe Oudiz on her website: www.thedivorceandseparationcoach.com. You can book a free initial call with Chloe: https://links.ellacrm.com/widget/booking/4UBB8xyshvdFSywoTRzO To find out more about Mills & Reeve and how our family lawyers can help, visit our website: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Divorce and separation can bring a storm of emotions -guilt, shame, grief, anger, and exhaustion - that make even simple decisions feel impossible. In this episode, Tim and Jen sit down with Petra Brunzell, a seasoned divorce coach with over 20 years of experience, to explore the emotional landscape of relationship breakdowns. Petra shares her personal journey through a high-conflict divorce and explains how coaching provides a supportive, forward-looking space to process feelings, regain confidence, and rebuild life after separation. The discussion covers the most common emotional hurdles, from the shock and grief of lost futures to the challenge of co-parenting and the struggle to find a new identity. Petra offers practical strategies for managing overwhelming emotions, setting boundaries, and supporting children through change. The episode also highlights how legal and emotional support professionals can collaborate to guide clients through the process and provides tips for choosing the right support team. Whether you’re considering separation, in the midst of divorce, or helping someone through it, this episode delivers honest insights and actionable advice for navigating the emotional side of starting over. Find out more about Petra and how she can help: https://www.divorcecoachingpb.co.uk/ Find out more about how our family lawyers can help you navigate your divorce: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/divorce-and-separation/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Divorce and separation can unleash a wave of emotions - guilt, shame, grief, anger, and even exhaustion - that often catch people off guard and make decision-making feel overwhelming. In this episode, Tim and Jen are joined by Julie de Ruiter, an experienced divorce coach and registered psychotherapeutic counsellor, to unpack the emotional realities of relationship breakdown. Julie shares how counselling offers a safe, neutral space to process difficult feelings, explore options, and move forward, whether you’re unsure about separating, struggling with the fallout, or rebuilding your life after the dust settles.  The conversation dives into the most common emotional challenges people face, from the burden of guilt and fear of failure to the grief of lost dreams and the fatigue that comes with navigating change. Julie explains how tailored support can help individuals and couples find clarity, set healthy boundaries, and support children through transition.  You’ll also learn how legal and counselling professionals can work together to guide clients and get practical advice for finding a therapist who fits your needs. If you or someone you care about is going through separation, this episode offers honest insights and empowering strategies for facing the emotional side of divorce.  Find out more about Julie: https://www.juliederuiter.co.uk/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

With divorce often bringing financial uncertainty and anxiety, many people wonder when and how to seek the right support. In this episode, Tim and Jen are joined by Steve Hennessy, a chartered financial planner and Resolution-accredited IFA at Beeswax Wealth Management, who brings extensive experience guiding clients through the financial side of divorce. Together, they explore the crucial role of financial advice alongside legal guidance, debunking the myth that you should wait until the end of the process to get help. The team discusses how early involvement from a financial advisor can help you understand your priorities, avoid common pitfalls (like pension sharing misconceptions), and build confidence in your financial future. They also highlight the importance of teamwork between legal and financial professionals, explain the role of a financial neutral in mediation, and share practical tips for choosing the right advisor for your situation. Whether you’re just starting the divorce process or supporting someone who is, this episode offers essential insights and actionable advice for navigating financial decisions with clarity and confidence. Find out more about Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenhennessy/ https://beeswaxwealth.co.uk/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Recently named as Resolution's Firm of the Year, Mills & Reeve Senior Associates Ellen Wilkinson and Matthew Saunderson join hosts Tim Whitney and Jen Curtis to discuss what Resolution means to them and their clients.  In this episode, they explore what Resolution stands for, the benefits a client gets from using a Resolution lawyer and how Resolution's code of practice fundamentally re-shapes the way family law professionals support separating families. The discussion covers the evolution of Resolution, its role in policy change (including its successful campaign for no-fault divorce and its ongoing campaign for law reform for unmarried couples), the importance of constructive language and how being a part of the Resolution network benefits clients.  Ellen and Matthew share practical examples of how following the code leads to better outcomes, especially for families with children, and highlight the resources available to those navigating separation. Find out more about Resolution: https://resolution.org.uk/ Find out more about Ellen: https://www.mills-reeve.com/people/ellen-wilkinson Find out more about Matthew: https://www.mills-reeve.com/people/matthew-saunderson Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Adopting a child from overseas is usually associated with celebrities. But is it an option available to ordinary people? In this episode, Tim and Jennifer are joined by Mills & Reeve Senior Associate Abigail Pearse, who specialises in child abduction, to demystify the complex world of international child adoption. Together, they explore the different legal routes for international adoption, including The Hague Convention process, designated list adoptions, and the recognition of foreign adoptions. Abigail explains the critical importance of understanding immigration status, the risks of inadvertently committing a criminal offence, and why early legal and immigration advice is essential. Listeners will gain insight into the step-by-step process for adopting internationally, the statutory criteria, and the practical hurdles - such as lengthy timelines, costs, and the emotional impact of home suitability assessments.  The episode also highlights complications like birth parent consent, country-specific restrictions, and the significance of the child’s best interests in court decisions. Packed with practical guidance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone considering international adoption or supporting families through this intricate legal journey. Find out more about Abi: https://www.mills-reeve.com/people/abigail-pearse/ Find out more about our adoption services: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/surrogacy-and-fertility-law/adoption/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

Taking a child abroad without the other parent’s consent or not returning a child from abroad after an agreed holiday, is classed as child abduction. But is child abduction a criminal offence? In this episode, Tim and Jen are joined by Mills & Reeve Partner Zoe Fleetwood, a specialist in child abduction and international children law. Together, they explore the myth that child abduction is always a criminal offence, clarify the legal definitions, and explain the processes involved when a child is taken or kept abroad without consent. The team discusses the role of The Hague Convention, what happens when countries aren’t signatories, and the practical steps parents can take if they fear abduction or need to secure a child’s return. Listeners will hear real-life examples, learn about the importance of early risk assessment, and discover the options for mediation and urgent court action. The episode also covers the court process, available defences, timelines, and the support legal aid can provide - offering clear, practical guidance for families navigating these complex international issues. Find out more about our child abdcution services: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/children/child-abduction/ Find out more about Zoe: https://www.mills-reeve.com/people/zoe-fleetwood/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

With more families living across borders, questions about moving children internationally after separation are increasingly common. But can parents move their children abroad without the child’s other parent permission? In this episode, Tim and Jen are joined by Mills & Reeve Associate Annie Wogel, who specialises in international family law. Together, they tackle the myth that a parent can move abroad with their child without the other parent's consent and explain the legal requirements for international relocation. The discussion covers why parents consider moving overseas, the importance of early communication and mediation, what the courts look for when deciding these cases, and the practical steps needed to plan a move. The team also outlines the court process, timelines, and when to seek legal advice, providing essential guidance for parents facing international relocation decisions. Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.

When it comes to an international divorce and there are connections to multiple countries, choosing the best jurisdiction for financial matters is crucial. But is London really the divorce capital of the world and the best place for financial settlements? In this episode, Tim and Jen are joined by Mills & Reeve Partner Melissa Lesson, an expert on financial claims for international divorces. Melissa draws on her cross-border experience to bust the myth that London is always the best place to divorce, explaining how jurisdiction depends on factors like habitual residence, domicile, and financial circumstances. Together, they explore the complexities of competing jurisdictions, the impact of Brexit, and the practical and strategic steps international couples should consider - from early legal advice in multiple countries to understanding enforcement challenges and the role of marital agreements. Whether you’re navigating a cross-border relationship or simply curious about how international divorce works, this episode offers essential insights and top tips for protecting your future. To find out more about our international divorce lawyers visit: https://www.mills-reeve.com/sectors-and-services/services-for-individuals/family-and-children/international-family-law/ Find out how Melissa can help you: https://www.mills-reeve.com/people/melissa-lesson/ Our content explained Every piece of content we create is correct on the date it’s published but please don’t rely on it as legal advice. If you’d like to speak to us about your own legal requirements, please contact one of our expert lawyers.