By Nicki Mitchell – Family Lawyer, Family Law Mediator and Collaborative Family Lawyer

The approach of Freshers’ Week at universities throughout the UK can set off wide-ranging emotions – and thoughts of divorce.   

While students are apprehensive and excited about leaving the family home, many parents who are experiencing a profound sense of loss start to question their relationship – and their future.   

Divorce figures overall are declining  but those among the over 50’s continue to rocket. The reasons vary from couple to couple. Some  couples know their relationship is over but stay together until the children have flown the nest. Others reconnect with old flames and many realise when the children are gone that their relationship has run its course and they want more from life. I share some insights below:  

Is Your Marriage Worth Saving?

Until you start living without the person you have shared over half your life with, you cannot know how much you will miss them. 

Before rushing to make seismic life changes you may later regret, communicate honestly and openly with your spouse and establish if you still want the same life goals.

A marriage in a rut can be worth salvaging and, If you are both on the same page, consider working with third parties like counsellors to get it back on track.  

Consider The Consequences Of Divorce

New living arrangements –divorce means finding a way to make the finances which have supported one household work for two.  It can often mean downsizing from a large house and garden, taking on a new or higher mortgage and possibly paying or being dependent on maintenance.

The Cost of Divorce canbe substantially higher for mature couples, many of whom have more assets, complicated savings, and property portfolios – often abroad. 

Specialist pensions advice will be needed to ensure a fair division of retirement income, including pension lump sums  Older couples often have financial plans for this stage in their life but have to rethink those plans when they separate.  Good financial advice is key to ensuring those assets are restructured fairly and how the children’s university costs will be funded .   

The Impact On Your Children -How will your children, and grandchildren, react – and how will divorce impact on how often you see them? Older children may better understand the reasons but can be more likely to take sides.

The loyalties of friends and wider family may be split, substantially reducing your support network. Also consider how the emotional cost of the break up will affect you.

When Staying Together Is Not An Option  

If there is no way forward, consider non-confrontational options to divorce, which avoid a lengthy, costly, and stressful court route, and put children’s best interests first.

Mediation –a means of resolving family disputes constructively, enabling you to keep  control over decisions which will affect the future of you and your family.

This private and confidential process takes place in an impartial environment and involves a mediator like me, an independent third party who helps you and your ex to reach an agreement over key areas. Many mediators, like myself, are lawyers and can provide extremely useful information about the law to inform your decisions.

Collaborative Family Law – you and your ex each appoint your own collaboratively trained lawyer. In a series of confidential meetings, you all work together to identify, address and resolve financial, parenting and other key issues.

Collaborative family lawyers  provide support and legal advice throughout the sessions. Accountants, independent financial advisers, pensions advisers and/or childcare specialists can also attend and provide guidance on a neutral basis.   

If court is the only way forward, I recommend securing the best possible legal advice from highly experienced family law professionals like Jones Myers. Our bespoke, innovative and problem-solving approach ensures we always seek the best solution for your individual situation.   

For queries on divorce/family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 Family Law Blogs to follow in 2026

Image by Skullman at Pixabay 

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What makes you laugh?

I enjoy light hearted comedies such as Amandaland, politically sharp comedians such as Stephen Colbert and John Oliver – and the recent season of Saturday Night Live UK.

A lot of aspects of world news at the moment are quite depressing if you spend too much time reading and watching it, and these comedians put a light hearted edge on serious issues.

Your specialisms include domestic abuse – what are your coping mechanisms for such distressing cases?

When dealing with very emotional and sensitive cases, you have to be able to talk about them with those around you – vocalizing the issues in a case can take the edge off them.

The Jones Myers team are incredibly supportive – there’s always someone around to talk things through with. I support my physical and mental health with a wild swim or a pool swim at least once a week, I love reading, and I practice yoga at home.

As a champion of change, what laws would you like to see reformed?

Although I think the government’s appetite (and indeed budget) for this is limited, I would like to see Legal Aid provision and funding reformed.

The situation has worsened since I started my Training Contract in 2007 when Legal Aid rates were woeful and the system was under strain.

The combination of rates being frozen and the continuing reduction of Legal Aid Agency’s payment rates is deterring young entrants from Legal Aid work. It is also resulting in committed professionals and firms who are heavily reliant on this work abandoning the field.

These factors affect the ability to access Legal Aid funding for those who need it most – with the significant tightening of eligibility requirements seeing fewer people able to access support. 

Although there are many competing priorities for funding, providing vital legal assistance and keeping justice accessible for all  is essential for the proper functioning of society.

How does Jones Myers excel in always putting children’s best interests first?

By constantly striving to look not only at the legal framework, but also at the practicalities of a family’s and child’s individual circumstances.

We know a ‘one size fits all’ approach doesn’t work for all families and children, so considering their particular circumstances and needs is essential in planning for the best outcome.

Following the ‘Guide to Good Practice’ by family law group Resolution to resolve family disputes, we encourage the use of mediation to help families reach agreement where appropriate.

We also apply our extensive expertise to  defuse conflict in family disputes in cases where litigation can’t be avoided and going to court is the only option.  

Who has inspired you in your career?

Everyone at my practice, firms I work on cases with on a regular basis, and employees at local court centres. They are all highly committed to family work despite its emotional challenges. It is not an area everyone is suited to and requires a high degree of empathy and emotional resilience.

What are you most proud of? 

My son, who was aptly described by his teacher as ‘curious, energetic and spirited’! He’s very funny and imaginative and I love our days out together. Every day in my career I’m proud to support families going through some of the most challenging times in their lives.

For divorce and family law queries, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the 20 Best UK Family Law Blogs to follow in 2026

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Jones Myers’ internationally renowned Children’s Department has further expanded with the appointment of Paralegal, Jessica Saville.  

Passionate about helping to make a difference to the outcome of client’s lives at a time when they most need it, Jessica is based across Jones Myers offices in Harrogate and York.   

Jones Myers Partner, Kate Banerjee, who heads the Children’s Department, said: “Jessica is highly committed to Jones Myers’ ethos to consistently deliver excellence in family law. She adds value to our highly experienced team, and we wish her every success in her career.”

Jessica said she was attracted to Jones Myers’ outstanding reputation as a leader in children law.

She commented: “Having previously worked with Jones Myers family lawyer, Laura Sargeant, I was drawn to the practice’s high-standing in its sector – and how it remains at the forefront of the most complex areas of children law.

“I love working with the team and learning from the vast experience of its family law specialists who always make time for me. I have an empathetic nature and enjoy interacting with our valued clients.”  

Covering every aspect of public and private children law, the extensive expertise of the 16-strong Children’s Department – supported by the firm’s in-house counsel – is believed to be unparalleled.

The practice is at the forefront of complex multi-cultural matters including Deprivation of a Child’s Liberty. It also consistently achieves a  high success rate in international child abduction across Hague and Non-Hague countries. 

The majority of children law experts are members of the Law Society Children Panel. The team’s expertise extends to membership of the Advanced Family Law Panel and the Child Abduction Panel.

Ranked in the top five per cent of UK law practices delivering family law services, Jones Myers is consistently awarded a 5 star ‘Excellent’ by Review Solicitors based on client ratings. 

With headquarters in Leeds and offices in York and Harrogate, the firm has retained its top tier rankings in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK guides for over three decades.

For queries on divorce or any aspect of family law, call Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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By Jones Myers Solicitor, Katie Jennings

Jones Myers has been at the forefront of ongoing campaigns to overhaul outdated cohabitation laws which currently do not give couples living together legal protection or rights if they split up.    

This is a far cry from the situation with married couples, who, on separation, are safeguarded in crucial areas such as savings, income, pensions, property, business interests, and their children’s future.        

We therefore embrace proposals at the heart of a Government consultation which seeks to protect cohabitants who are parting ways in areas including financial remedies – and in situations when one of them dies without leaving a will.

As a specialist family law firm we are frequently instructed by clients – who have been cohabiting and are unmarried or in a civil partnership – and who are unaware that they have no automatic rights to their partner’s property or savings when their relationship breaks down.   

The current situation can cause even more uncertainly when there are children from the relationship.

As we await the outcome of the proposed changes, we suggest that cohabitees in this situation  obtain advice about their protections under the law – ideally before they move in together – or at any stage of their co-habiting relationship.

More couples are entering into co-habitation agreements which set out how financial matters within the relationship will be managed . The contracts are especially useful documents in circumstances where people already own assets in their sole names or have made purchases with contributions from parents or from inheritance. They provide an essential roadmap for them to follow should they split up.  

It is important that each party seeks independent legal advice and discloses all financial information in the lead up to signing the agreement, which should be reviewed regularly.

Entered into correctly, a co-habitation agreement is legally binding and can be used as the framework for a Pre-Nuptial Agreement should marriage be on the cards.

Jones Myers is committed to helping our clients navigate these issues, whether through our team of specialist family lawyers or through our experienced mediation practitioners.

More on the Government consultation, which closes on August 14, can be found here.  

For queries on cohabitation agreements or any areas of divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

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Jones Myers commitment to develop and inspire the next generation has seen the firm recognise the exceptional performance of a Masters law student for the seventh consecutive year.

Farhan Khan, the 2026 recipient of the Jones Myers Prize for the Best Overall Performance on Master of Laws of England and Wales at Leeds Beckett University, received the accolade at a special prize giving ceremony.

Farhan says he is truly honoured and deeply grateful to be selected for the distinguished recognition – a privilege he will always cherish.

He commented: “To me, this award represents far more than a certificate or a trophy. It is a recognition of hard work, dedication, perseverance, and the values that guide us in our personal and professional lives.

“While this honour is deeply meaningful to me, I believe its impact extends far beyond the individual recipient. It inspires family, friends, colleagues, fellow students, and the wider community to believe in their own potential, work with greater determination, and pursue excellence.”

Commented Sarah Barr-Young, head of Jones Myers Financial Remedies Department in Harrogate who presented Farhan with his prize: “Farhan is a true inspiration whose passion and commitment to consistently excel makes him a worthy recipient of this award.

“Our practice’s annual Masters honour chimes with our deep-rooted ethos to champion the next generation of lawyers and we all wish him lifelong success and happiness in his chosen career.”  

Extending his heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Jones Myers and Leeds Law School, Farhan added: “The award is a wonderful example of how recognising achievement can create a lasting, positive impact.

“By celebrating the contributions of individuals, you encourage others to serve with integrity, compassion, and commitment. Initiatives such as this help build stronger communities, inspire future leaders, and contribute to the continued growth and success of our society and our nation.”

Dr Rachel Dunn, Head of Law (Postgraduate) at Leeds Beckett University, said: “Farhan’s special performance prize reflects his outstanding accomplishments, and we wish him every future success in his ambitions. 

“Since the Jones Myers award was launched in 2020, the University’s Law Faculty has enjoyed and valued our partnership with the firm and the dedication of its family lawyers to recognise and reward tomorrow’s talent.”

Andrew Fox, Jones Myers director and in-house barrister, added: “At Jones Myers we consistently strive to deliver excellence in everything we do and are immensely proud of the difference that our award makes to outstanding students like Farhan.”

With headquarters in Leeds and offices in York and Harrogate, Jones Myers, has retained its top tier rankings in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK guides for over three decades.

For queries on divorce or any aspect of family law, call Leeds on 0113 246 0055, Harrogate on 01423 276104, or York on 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5^th in the 20 Best UK Family Law Blogs to Follow in 2026.

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Disputes among separated and divorced parents over access to their children can become  fraught and complicated when one parent seeks to relocate them to a different area in the UK or to a new country overseas. 

Anthony Parrish, a Partner in Jones Myers Children’s Department, addresses frequently asked questions.      

What circumstances prompt parents to relocate their child/children?

The main ones are returning to the country of origin to be with family, work, a new partner, and, for a better standard of living’.

Are the current laws straightforward for separated parents to move their child/children both in and outside the UK – and do they guarantee the other parent visitation rights?

If a parent wishes to relocate with a child permanently from their current country of residence,  they require either written permission from everyone holding parental responsibility for the child – or an Order of the court, called a Specific Issues Order.

Do different laws apply for relocating children to different continents?

No, the law is the same regardless of which country the relocation is to. However, consideration must be given to the specific country when looking at welfare and safety issues. For example, a relocation to France is very different to one to Iran.

What factors do courts consider when deciding relocation cases?  

A number of points, one of the main ones being the child’s ability to retain a relationship with the left behind parent. They will also look at the education needs of the child, support networks, the parents’ ability to provide for the child financially, housing etc.

What options are open to parents who are seeking to stop their child/children being relocated at home or abroad? 

The parent can file a Prohibited Steps Order to prevent the child being taken out of the jurisdiction and also seek a ‘Lives-with’ Child Arrangement Order for the child to live with them at the same time.

What recourse is there for parents if their ex has already taken their child/children to a new area in the UK or to a foreign country?  

This would be child abduction, therefore the immediate recourse would be under the Hague Convention, if the country is a signatory. It is more difficult in a Non-Hague country where parents could apply for the child’s return under the inherent jurisdiction of the High Court.  However, many Non-Hague countries will simply look to their own laws and often refuse to recognise this jurisdiction.

How long do conflicts relating to relocation cases at home and abroad take to resolve?  

On average six months, however, each case is different.

In Jones Myers’ extensive experience, how does the upheaval affect a child/children’s well-being?

Any relocation will affect them as they won’t be seeing the other parent as much and are moving to a new country and leaving friends and family behind. Despite all this disruption, children can be resilient.

I would urge concerned parents who are in this situation to seek legal advice immediately from family law experts like Jones Myers who are experienced in children law and child relocation.   

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

Image by Alexas_fotos at Pixabay

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Solicitor Katie Jennings, who features in our next ‘Rising Talent’ series, explains why  mediation is becoming increasingly important in divorce – and who has inspired her career to date   

What specific qualities do lawyers need to work in family law?

Patience, good communication skills and empathy.

What attracted you to work in family law?

I wanted a career in which I could help people through difficult periods in their lives but also one where I would be able to develop professionally and  be challenged.

What is the most important thing you have learnt to date?

To not be afraid to ask questions of your colleagues – we are all learning and no-one is expected to have all the answers.

You’re on the way to becoming a qualified mediator – why is mediation becoming increasingly important as a process in divorce and relationship breakdown?

To go through the court process is lengthy and costly, not to mention stressful. I think more people are open to exploring other ways to reach agreement as a result. There is also a £500 government voucher scheme for mediations which address child arrangements, which is a useful incentive.  The scheme  has  been extended until March 2029. For information, visit here   

Why do you think many people still see litigation as the only way forward – and what  is your message to them?

I would suggest that they at least find out more information about the alternatives – whether that’s mediation, arbitration or collaborative family practice. Even though those options ultimately might not lead to an agreement, the issues could be narrowed should you end up in court.

What three things don’t your colleagues know about you?

• My first degree was in Peace Studies
• I used to work in a radio station and presented a radio show.
• I’m learning to play the drums.

Who has inspired you in your career?

A mentor called Juliette Kinsey at law school. She is very committed to non-court dispute resolution having trained in collaborative  practice, mediation and family law supervision before these were more widely practised. I’m inspired by her commitment to finding her own path within family law.

Are there any family laws you would like to see changed ?

I’m really pleased to see that the laws around co-habitation will be reviewed – so many people live together for years without being married and don’t realise that their legal rights on separation are limited.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about pursuing a career in family law?  

Start to build connections and take it from there – family law is a small world and people are always keen to help out. My mentor was invaluable in connecting me with key people in family law in my area and those connections eventually led to securing a training contract!

How do you switch from work to home mode?

Luckily I live near a park and woodland, so I try to go out for a walk or run to mark the end of the working day.

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

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Jones Myers highly experienced family lawyer, Sarah Barr-Young, has been appointed as a board member to help drive the vision and objectives of the Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID).

Sarah, who heads Jones Myers Financial Remedies Department in the firm’s Harrogate office, joins a voluntary Board of influential directors overseeing the delivery of BID’s plan to support, safeguard and improve the town centre for businesses, visitors and residents.

Born in Harrogate, Sarah has extensive expertise in family law matters including complex, high net worth financial disputes, business property portfolios, pensions on divorce and resolving disputes out of court through negotiation.

She said: “I am honoured to be instrumental in BID’s strategy to maximise the potential of Harrogate as a dynamic destination and empower local businesses to tackle local issues.

“My role at Jones Myers entails meeting and working with wide-ranging local companies and I’m looking forward to adding value to BID’s goals during the organisation’s second term.”

Over the past 12 months BID has clocked up a  raft of successful achievements. They include its rapid response Street Rangers further enhancing the town’s visual appearance, forging key partnerships with police, councils and voluntary organisations – and recruiting a Business Crime Officer.

Funding has also been secured for ongoing investment in tackling anti-social behaviour and a new IT system that tracks spend data across the BID area.

Jason Maxwell, CEO of Harrogate BID, commented: “We warmly welcome Sarah to Harrogate BID in a formative year as we further strengthen our role as a voice for town centre businesses and promote key regional events.

“Sarah’s extensive experience of working with local companies, coupled with her dedication  to our long-term strategic vision for the town centre, complement BID’s ethos and values. We look forward to Sarah’s contribution as we accelerate our vision throughout 2026 and beyond.”

Andrew Fox, Jones Myers director and in-house barrister, added: “As a long-standing Harrogate employer committed to local businesses and the community, Jones Myers is delighted to forge long-standing partnerships.

“It is tremendous that Sarah is joining the BID board and we wish Harrogate BID continued success as it continues to go from strength to strength.”   

To find out more about Harrogate BID, a not-for-profit organisation launched on January 1^st 2019, visit https://harrogatebid.co.uk/

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

Sarah Barr-Young is pictured third from left back row with Jason Maxwell, CEO of Harrogate BID, fourth left from back row, and fellow board members     

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As leaders in our field, Jones Myers is passionate about promoting the need for improvements to the family justice system which always put children’s best interests first.

Jones Myers Family Lawyer, Laura Sargeant from our Children’s Team, has played a key role in helping to organise an informative family law conference covering vital issues to change current laws – and ensure victims and survivors of domestic abuse receive help when they most need it.

Baroness Hale, the Supreme Court’s esteemed first female President who has been pivotal in ensuring children’s voices are heard and their rights protected, was among key speakers at the York and North Yorkshire Family Justice Board Conference.

Attendees also heard Claire Throssell MBE movingly share how her sons, aged 12 and 9, were murdered by their father in 2014, after a court gave him five hours of unsupervised weekly contact. Since joining forces with Women’s Aid in 2016, Claire has campaigned tirelessly for change.  

Dame Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, then highlighted her office’s role in striving to making family courts a safer place for victims of domestic abuse.

Presenters also spanned local judges and representatives from Inspire North and ‘For Baby’s Sake,’ a charity helping families to break the cycles of domestic abuse. Members of the Family Justice Young People’s Board joined the conference remotely to share how their guide aims to keep children and young people at the centre of court proceedings.

Attendees included 120 local solicitors, members of the local judiciary, barristers, social workers, and representatives from local volunteer organisations including IDAS, Inspire North and Citizens Advice. The event was compered by Victoria Kilpatrick, a specialist in public and private law proceedings, from the main sponsor, Dere Street Barristers. 

Along with fellow committee members, Laura, who is Chair of the Training Sub-Committee for the North and North Yorkshire Family Justice Board and representative for the local public law solicitors, volunteered eight months of her time outside work to plan the annual forum.

Said Laura: “Thank you to them, our attendees and to everyone,  including Dere Street Barristers and mini sponsors National Legal Service, Jones Myers and Ramsdens, who helped to make the thought-provoking conference a great success.”

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

Pictured left to right is Dame Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales, Claire Throssell MBE and Laura Sargeant  

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A new series ‘Rising Talent’ puts the spotlight on our junior lawyers – sharing insights into their aspirations, challenges and what makes them tick.

Recently qualified Family Lawyer, Lauren Warford, shares how she was bowled over by the enormous impact our Children’s Team had on clients’ lives when she started working with them in 2018.

“Seeing the team in action intrigued me – their work always seemed really varied and interesting. It can be fast paced and challenging but ultimately makes a huge difference to the lives of our clients and their families which is really rewarding.”

Dealing with sensitive and challenging issues, Lauren represents clients in private law and public law cases  and domestic abuse victims 

“Disputes about child arrangements following separation can make client’s lives feel really chaotic. I find it really satisfying to help them reach arrangements that bring peace to families who can then look to the future.

“Helping domestic abuse victims obtain Non Molestation Orders (NMOs) is important because there is often so much for them to consider and handling it alone feel be overwhelming. Supporting, guiding and assisting clients though applications for injunctions is one small way lawyers can help. No one should have to live in fear of abuse and NMOs are often an important first step towards victims of domestic abuse being able to move on with their lives with confidence.” 

Passionate about legal aid being available for those most in need, Lauren is a champion of present legislation being clarified and updated. 

“Current laws are very confusing and need clarification on who is entitled to legal aid. While we are always happy to assess if clients qualify for funding, eligibility is restricted. If it was expanded, more people could benefit from legal advice and representation when navigating important family law disputes.”

Lauren’s key tip for those contemplating a career in family law is to get practical experience while studying  

“Working as a paralegal at Jones Myers enabled me to see how the law and skills I learned are  used by senior solicitors every day. Practical experience is vital – even a week’s work experience or a day shadowing a solicitor would be beneficial. You can learn so much from  family lawyers who are really supportive and keen to share their stories and insights.”

Due to the nature of her work, Lauren admits that achieving a work/life balance can be illusive  

“The balance is so important – but not always easy. My work is rewarding but intense and can take over if you let it. I have definitely fallen into the trap of skipping lunch, working late to finish documents or checking emails on weekends to get caught up.

“But ultimately I know I write better documents when I am fed and hydrated, and give clearer advice when I am well rested, so I try to look after my health and make sure to save some time to spend with my partner, family and friends too, so that I can show up to work feeling my best.

“I unwind by reading. Escaping into another world makes for a great wind down. I also enjoy yoga and gardening and look forward to sunny evenings in my little garden this summer.”

For queries on divorce and family law, call 0113 246 0055 (Leeds) 01423 276104 (Harrogate), 202550 (York). Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5th among the UK’s Best 20 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2026

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