When parents separate, deciding where a child will live and how they’ll be cared for can be one of the most difficult and emotional parts of the process. Disagreements over living arrangements often lead families to seek clear guidance on what the law allows and how a court may decide if the couple is unable to agree.

A psychologist whose advice led to the removal of at least a dozen children from their mothers care has had her evidence thrown out in a landmark case. In a judgment delivered by Mrs Justice Judd, the court ruled that psychologist Melanie Gill’s assessment failed to meet the necessary evidential standards.

As a leading regional law firm with a strong history of supporting the rural sector we understand the unique challenges faced by farming families and farm businesses. We have a broad experience of representing rural communities and businesses across the country from Cumbria through the whole of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Norfolk.

When couples marry or enter into a civil partnership, the law in England and Wales generally treats assets as part of the “marital pot” available for division if the relationship ends. A prenuptial agreement is often seen as the most direct way to ringfence wealth acquired before the marriage, inherited funds or family property, but it is not the only option.