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20 May 2026
Issue: 8162 / Categories: Legal News , Family
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New head of family division takes the reins

Sir Stephen Cobb has been sworn in by the Lady Chief Justice as president of the Family Division

Speaking at the ceremony last week, the Lady Chief Justice said: ‘Those who were present at Lord Justice Cobb’s swearing in to the Court of Appeal last year may remember my congratulations for his elevation to the next rung of the judicial ladder—which, given his stature, was an object that he rarely had to use.

‘Perhaps that was less a joke, and more a premonition. Stephen will be a superb president, bringing his intellect, drive, charm and wit to this important role.’

Sir Stephen was called to the Bar in 1985, took silk in 2003, and was appointed to the High Court in 2013. He is a Liverpool University graduate and was formerly joint head of chambers at 1 Garden Court. He takes over from Sir Andrew McFarlane, who retired in April.

Issue: 8162 / Categories: Legal News , Family
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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Ward Hadaway—19 promotions

Ward Hadaway—19 promotions

19 promotions across national offices, including two new partners

Brabners—Ruth Hargreaves

Brabners—Ruth Hargreaves

Partner promoted to head of corporate team

Slater Heelis—Liam Hall, Jordan Bear & Joe Madigan

Slater Heelis—Liam Hall, Jordan Bear & Joe Madigan

Chester office expansion accelerates with triple appointment

NEWS
As AI chatbots increasingly provide legal and commercial advice, English law is beginning to confront who should bear responsibility when automated systems get things wrong
Businesses are facing a ‘dramatic rise in prosecution risks’ as sweeping reforms to corporate criminal liability come into force, expanding the net of who can be held responsible for wrongdoing inside organisations
The Court of Appeal’s decision in Mazur v Charles Russell Speechlys has reignited debate over what exactly counts as the ‘conduct of litigation’ in modern legal practice
A controversial High Court financial remedies ruling has reignited debate over secrecy, non-disclosure and fairness in divorce proceedings involving hidden wealth
Britain’s deferred prosecution agreement regime is undergoing a significant shift, with prosecutors placing renewed emphasis on corporate cooperation, reform and early self-reporting
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