Joanne Harriman

Common law marriage is a concept that refers to a marriage-like relationship between two people who live together for a certain period of time but without actually getting married or registering their partnership formally. This type of arrangement is recognised in some countries but not in the UK.

Whenever you separate from a partner, and you share children, there is inevitably going to be an impact on those children as you settle into your new parenting roles. However, if you can minimise the conflict between the adults as much as possible, this will allow the children to transition into that role more easily.

Family Mediation Week runs from 16-20th January 2023. This is a campaign run by the Family Mediation Council to raise awareness of family mediation and the benefits it can bring to separating families.

No-fault divorce may be leading to greater numbers managing their own financial arrangements through the process, and as we approach the typically tough time for couples over the Christmas period, a reminder of the need for help in reaching a balanced outcome with future certainty on finances.

Christmas contact arrangements can cause heightened emotions between separated parents when deciding who will have the children and when throughout the festive period. It is always important to remember to never make the children decide, as doing so can cause the children unnecessary anxiety and stress at what is supposed to be a joyous time.