header-logo header-logo

09 April 2025
Issue: 8112 / Categories: Legal News , Divorce , Family
printer mail-detail

Splits on the rise with only one lawyer

More separating couples are turning to a one-lawyer approach, according to family practitioners.

The family team at HCR Law says it has experienced an 88% rise in the number of divorcing or separating clients choosing its one-lawyer service in 2024 compared to 2023.

HCR partner Laura Williams said: ‘The traditional route of each spouse instructing their own lawyer can automatically entice hostility.

‘The one-lawyer approach ensures both parties receive clear advice, guidance and support while avoiding the drawn-out battles that often arise when each spouse uses their own solicitor and there is back and forth correspondence dealing with matters which could otherwise be dealt with swiftly.’

While not suitable for all couples, the increase in take-up indicates a growing preference for a less adversarial approach and aligns with the introduction of no-fault divorce in 2022.

Issue: 8112 / Categories: Legal News , Divorce , Family
printer mail-details

MOVERS & SHAKERS

EIP—Stuart Malcolm

EIP—Stuart Malcolm

EIP strengthens Commercial practice with a new partner

Ellisons—Francesca Brown

Ellisons—Francesca Brown

Ellisons welcomes Francesca Brown to Family team

Shakespeare Martineau—Marie Bourke

Shakespeare Martineau—Marie Bourke

Shakespeare Martineau strengthens Sheffield regulatory practice with new hires

NEWS
A wide-ranging Civil Way column highlights developments from insolvency procedure to employment law, but one case stands out for its lessons on bankruptcy, family homes and digital communications
A sprawling Intellectual Property Office battle between House of Fraser and Frasers Property has delivered a masterclass in modern trade mark law
Courts in England and Wales and Singapore are increasingly confronting complex disputes over international child relocation as families become more globally mobile
The government’s long-awaited family law reform consultation could mark a turning point for domestic abuse victims navigating financial remedy proceedings, but significant challenges remain
A new commercial court pilot giving the public access to documents used in hearings, including expert reports, is raising difficult questions about transparency and privacy
back-to-top-scroll