News – Page 21
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NewsExtra probate staff deployed as applications surge
Probate applications are now granted within six weeks, says HMCTS.
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NewsNo-fault divorce to start in autumn 2021
Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill reaches parliamentary finishing line.
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NewsDivorce bill reaches final stretch of parliamentary marathon
Proposed legislation was first introduced to the House of Commons last June.
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NewsNews focus: Family courts - a bumpy road ahead
Sir Andrew McFarlane’s framework for the family courts concedes that remote hearings will remain predominant for the foreseeable future. Normal business may – or may not – be resumed by the spring.
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NewsCare case proceeds despite mother’s QC shielding at home
Court of Appeal says physical absence of leading counsel does not result in an unfair hearing.
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News'Trapped capital': LAA challenged in High Court over means test
Woman said to be victim of domestic abuse denied legal aid for family proceedings involving ex-partner.
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NewsSocial distancing causes delays at regional divorce centre
Separating couples face 20-week wait for district judge to consider consent order application.
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NewsFrontline lawyers don’t all share LCJ’s enthusiasm for remote hearings
Lord Burnett of Maldon has said there is ‘no going back’ to the way courts worked pre-coronavirus.
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NewsProbate applications halve during lockdown
HMCTS is preparing for a surge in applications for grants of probate once government restrictions are eased.
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NewsJudge: ‘Some people are better at lying, whether remotely or in person’
Parents to give evidence remotely in care order case, as judiciary opt again for virtual justice.
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NewsLawyers urged to offer free 20-minute domestic abuse support
Support service for parents going through family courts says growing number of calls features domestic abuse.
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NewsMcFarlane warns of remote hearing ‘overload’ after wrong care order
Family head says courts must be prepared to adjourn cases if they are not suitable for remote hearings.
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NewsManchester firm expands across Pennines and targets hires from rivals
Hall Brown prepares to open Sheffield office after recruiting Irwin Mitchell partner.
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NewsGovernment legal move risks councils ‘downing tools’ on support for disabled children
Meanwhile, two more Midlands councils use Coronavirus Act to shelve duties to adults.
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NewsWills reform must not endanger the elderly, says government
Major overhaul of probate legislation has been expected since March to enable people to make wills in lockdown.
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NewsProbate researchers 'flouting lockdown rules by visiting heirs'
At least one outfit is visiting potential beneficiaries in person, association claims.
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NewsSolicitor spends hours in call queue for update on abuse injunctions
Law firm director says emergency applications should be heard on the same or following day.
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NewsFirm offers free advice to domestic abuse victims
National firm says 20-minute consultation will be offered for as long as Covid-19 crisis lasts.
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NewsGovernment risks missing the boat on ‘emergency’ probate laws
Ministers have yet to decide which changes on signature witnessing to put before parliament.
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NewsMcFarlane calls for feedback on remote hearings
Family division president begins two-week consultation to inform fresh guidance.