D&A Solicitors | BLOG

  Family court proceedings, often fraught with emotion and complexity, are undergoing a significant transformation with the expansion of the Pathfinder pilot scheme . This initiative, designed to expedite cases, reduce conflict, and prioritise the well-being of children, is gaining traction across the UK, offering a beacon of hope for families navigating the challenging terrain of separation and divorce. This blog post delves into the details of the Pathfinder pilot, exploring its origins, key features, and potential impact on the family justice system.  This post is a summary of a longer recent BBC article " Family court pilot to support abuse victims expanded " A Response to Systemic Challenges The Pathfinder pilot emerged from a 2020 review of the family justice system, which revealed critical shortcomings in the existing processes. The review found that traditional court procedures often exacerbated conflict between parents, retraumatizing victims of domestic abuse and...

  Divorce is rarely straightforward, but recent issues surrounding pension valuations are adding unnecessary complexity and distress for many couples, particularly those involving teachers and other public sector workers. This blog post delves into the ongoing problems highlighted by recent BBC coverage [ I can't get divorced as I can't get my pension valued ], exploring the reasons behind the delays, the impact on individuals navigating divorce proceedings, and potential solutions to alleviate this growing problem. The Pension Valuation Bottleneck A critical step in many divorce settlements involves determining the value of each spouse's pension. This often requires a Cash Equivalent Transfer Value (CETV), which represents the current value of the pension benefits if they were to be transferred. This figure is essential for courts to divide assets fairly and ensure a clean break between the parties. However, obtaining a CETV has become a significant bottleneck for many, w...

  The UK immigration landscape is constantly evolving, and recent announcements regarding fee increases have brought significant changes to the forefront. These proposed adjustments, impact various aspects of the immigration process and are designed, according to the government, to bolster the system's financial sustainability and efficiency. However, these changes also raise important questions about accessibility and potential barriers for individuals and families seeking to enter or remain in the UK. Understanding the Rationale Behind the Fee Increases The UK government justifies these fee increases ( https://www.gov.uk/government/news/next-steps-for-a-more-efficient-immigration-system ) as a necessary measure to reduce the immigration system's reliance on taxpayer funding. The stated aim is to generate additional revenue, estimated at £269 million annually, to support a more efficient and digitally driven system. While the pursuit of efficiency and financial stability ...

Inheriting a home can be a bittersweet experience. While it often comes as part of a loved one’s legacy, it brings new responsibilities and questions about what to do next. Selling an inherited property is a popular choice, but it can also feel complex. This guide walks you through the essentials of selling an inherited home in England, including the legal steps, financial considerations, and practical tips to make the process as smooth as possible. 1. Probate: The First Step Before you can legally sell an inherited home, you’ll need to obtain probate . Probate is the process of administering the deceased’s estate, including distributing their assets. If there’s a will, the executor (appointed by the deceased) must apply for a Grant of Probate. If no will exists, a close family member can apply for Letters of Administration to manage the estate. Probate usually takes several months, but in complex cases, it can take up to a year. It’s wise to consult a solicitor specialising in probat...