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Fault-based divorce is set to be scrapped under government plans to streamline the divorce process and end the ‘blame-game’.
Lord Chancellor, David Gauke, who has previously said that the argument for reform is ‘strong’, is expected to launch a consultation to shake up legislation that has not been changed for almost half a century.
A case at the Supreme Court in July highlighted the need for change, after judges ruled that Tini Owens must remain married to her husband of 40 years until 2020 because he refused to consent to a divorce.
Under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, unless both partners agree to split after two years of separation, one party must prove their partner is at fault through adultery, desertion or unreasonable behaviour. Otherwise, applicants must wait until they have lived apart for five years.
Fault-based divorce is set to be scrapped under government plans to streamline the divorce process and end the ‘blame-game’.
Lord Chancellor, David Gauke, who has previously said that the argument for reform is ‘strong’, is expected to launch a consultation to shake up legislation that has not been changed for almost half a century.
A case at the Supreme Court in July highlighted the need for change, after judges ruled that Tini Owens must remain married to her husband of 40 years until 2020 because he refused to consent to a divorce.
Under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, unless both partners agree to split after two years of separation, one party must prove their partner is at fault through adultery, desertion or unreasonable behaviour. Otherwise, applicants must wait until they have lived apart for five years.
Far-ranging month for the Chair of the Bar
Endometriosis Awareness North, a charity raising awareness of endometriosis and supporting those affected across the North of England, has received a £500 boost from AlphaBiolabs via the company’s Giving Back initiative
Marie Law, Director of Toxicology at AlphaBiolabs, examines the most recent data on alcohol misuse in the UK, and the implications for alcohol testing in family proceedings
Clement Cowley, Partner at The Penny Group, explains how tailored financial planning can help barristers take control of their finances and plan with confidence
Marie Law, Director of Toxicology at AlphaBiolabs
A £500 donation from AlphaBiolabs has been made to the leading UK charity tackling international parental child abduction and the movement of children across international borders
Seeing the full picture – Baljit Ubhey OBE outlines the CPS action plan to tackle violence against women and girls, offering insights directly relevant to courtroom practice
Heritage as an anchor and a compass, finding our common humanity and embracing the power of the outsider – Melina Antoniadis’s lessons learnt
Is the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office process fit for purpose? Women barristers’ experiences of bullying are not being reported or, if they are, they are not making it through the system, says Tana Adkin KC
Review by Daniel Barnett
Chair of the Bar reports back
