Kirsty, Author at Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers Reading, Divorce solicitors Berkshire

Whilst many groups welcomed the proposed reform to cohabitation rights recently set out by the government, the Centre for Social Justice (CJS) sounded alarm bells.

They challenged the government view that the proposed rights would not affect how people living in England and Wales would view relationships or cohabiting. The government also considered that the proposals would also not affect people’s decision to marry or have children.

The Finnish experience

Drawing on data from Finland which introduced similar changes in 2011, and from other countries, the CSJ was confident to:

“Project what Finland’s family and birth rates could have been if the reforms had not been introduced". (1)

The CSJ estimated that:

- The first marriage rate for women in Finland was 23 per cent lower within seven years of the reform.
- The change was not followed by an increase in household stability amongst cohabiting couples
- The reform reduced marriage rates without achieving a requisite increase in household stability.

Lower fertility rates

This was a surprising figure to emerge concerning the fertility rate (i.e. the number of babies born.)

"The Finnish fertility rate also fell by 21 per cent by 2018. In Finland, 42 per cent of the decline in first births has been attributed to the decline in fertility in cohabiting couples." (2)

The CSJ estimate that if England and Wales had introduced the reforms at the same time as Finland, it would have resulted in:

- 111,014 fewer marriages between 2012 and 2023
- 24,855 fewer marriages in 2023 alone.
- The Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in 2023 (6) would have been 1.26, rather than 1.44.
- Approx 75,000 fewer babies born per year since 2021

(Our own note of caution here: whilst based on robust national population data, this is still a 'what if' projection.)

The CSJ concludes that:

"At a time when birth rates are already at historic lows and population ageing is placing growing pressure on public finances, policymakers cannot assume these reforms will be behaviourally neutral. The potential costs are too great, and the evidence too significant, to ignore."

Eroding the legal status of marriage

In their full-length report, the CSJ raise the issue of how the reforms could create:

"A quasi-marriage status without the clarity, consent or safeguards that marriage provides. Marriage is the mechanism through which family law recognises commitment and allocates rights and responsibilities. Creating parallel automatic rights for cohabiting couples would raise difficult questions of jurisdiction, evidence, litigation and fairness."

It is certainly an issue if almost all the rights afforded by marriage are allocated automatically to any couple fulfilling the proposed cohabitation criteria, namely:

- They have lived together for three years (and can prove it)

- They have a child together

Is this just marriage lite?

The CSJ is therefore concerned that the proposals would effectively create a status of marriage-lite.

"Government plans to give cohabiting couples many of the rights conferred by marriage risk worsening the demographic time-bomb facing the country ... (Their analysis) concludes that England and Wales would have seen over 75,000 fewer babies born."

The CSJ's view is in stark contrast to the government viewpoint as outlined by the Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy:

"We’re launching this consultation to make sure our new family law builds a fair system that offers the most vulnerable protection in the event of a breakup, and at a time where the country is facing cost of living pressures ... These reforms strike an important balance between tradition and modernity. I’m determined that our justice system should work for everyone who needs it." (4)

Less choice for cohabiting couples

At present couples in England and Wales have a choice, either to:

- Get married or enter a civil partnership

- Cohabitate

The decision to cohabit carries no legal obligations as such, which is one reason we encourage those planning to live together to draw up a cohabitation agreement to outline their financial position, if nothing else.

It is worth noting that some couples choose to live together but do not wish to have rights to each other’s assets, wealth, or pensions. They wish to remain independent and separate in financial terms whilst still being in a relationship.

A key concern with the proposed reforms is that the automatic rights they create can't simply be “switched off.” A cohabitation agreement and a deed of trust offers a way around this, allowing couples to set out their own terms for separation and opt out of the legislation by mutual agreement.

Agreeing on marriage

The choice to marry or to cohabitate should ideally be an 'active' decision that both partners agree on. The CSJ are concerned that "marriage auto-enrolment" will erode the need to marry.

In reality, becoming part of a couple is often a lot more messy than this. Couples may find themselves cohabiting earlier than expected to share costs or before their sometimes unexpected first child. They may want to live together, but actually can't. They may have blended families that do not get along. Equally, once under the same roof, one partner may subject the other to domestic abuse, or exert coercive control.

It is a very difficult task to form legislation that covers all circumstances. It is also confusing if that legislation does not differentiate in some way between an active agreed choice and a set of circumstances.

How can cohabitation affect the economy

As living together confirms similar rights to marriage by default, if people choose not to marry, this might have an impact on the nation as a whole. In an introduction to the CSJ report, Nick Timothy CBE MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Justice and Shadow Lord Chancellor wrote:

"If we are serious about economic growth, stronger communities and sustainable public finances, we cannot be careless about the institutions that support long-term commitment. The evidence in this report shows that similar reforms in Finland were associated with fewer marriages, lower rates of couple formation and significantly lower fertility. When the state blurs the distinction between marrying and not marrying, fewer people may choose the institution that has historically supported family stability."

What is ”automatic entitlement”?

The proposals would automatically grant a set of rights to anyone living together as a couple (whether they want them or not). A survey of over 1,500 UK adults conducted by JL Partners on behalf of the Centre for Social Justice asked specifically about the issue of auto-entitlement:

- "Nearly 60% of respondents agreed that couples should choose whether they marry rather than automatically gaining marriage-style rights after a set period of time.

- 56% of those surveyed did not think that living together should, by itself, confer a legal claim on a partner’s savings, property or pension." (3)

Why did I not hear about these proposals?

One of the other concerns is that the public simply do not know about the proposed changes (despite our own best efforts and those of others!).

In a submission to Justice Secretary Alex Norris, Baroness Ruth Deech (a Crossbench peer in the House of Lords) cited a poll of 2,060 UK adults conducted by Survation, which found that:

- 72% had heard little or nothing about the proposals

- Only 37% supported them after they were explained

- 76% believe divorced and widowed people should be able to protect assets

- 42% say the current law is broadly adequate

- 41% believe new rights are needed (5)

How might the proposals affect the courts?

Previously, Judge Edward Hess, Deputy National Lead Judge of the Financial Remedies Court, had estimated that the government’s proposed changes could create 10,000 additional Family Court cases every year. With UK courts already under strain, this is a major concern for family law firms like ourselves that currently experience extended timescales for divorce and separation cases under the current system.

TLDR: what’s the summary?

Even after the consultation period has closed, the government’s cohabitation proposals remain a bone of contention. As family lawyers, our expertise involves seeing both sides of an argument, and also rigorous and comprehensive research to ensure we have the full picture. So, on this matter, we will wait and see what the results of the consultation are.

Cohabiting and help with separating

About the author

Rita Gupta is Co-founder and Managing Director of family law firm LGFL Ltd, serving family law for clients in the Reading and Thames Valley area, across the UK and for international clients involved in UK divorce cases. She has featured as a family law expert on national TV and radio, including BBC Radio 5 Live with Nicky Campbell, LBC, GB News with Darren McCaffrey and local TV and radio.

- Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
- Listed in Chambers and Partners
- Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
- Member of Resolution

REFERENCES:

1. Centre for Social Justice. (2026). Finnishing marriage? https://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/library/finnishing-marriage
2. Centre for Social Justice. (2026). Finnishing marriage? [Report]. https://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/CSJ-Finnishing_Marriage.pdf
3. Family Law Week. (2026). Centre for Social Justice says cohabitation reforms risk decreasing the population and lack public support. https://www.familylawweek.co.uk/centre-for-social-justice-says-cohabitation-reforms-risk-decreasing-the-population-and-lack-public-support/
4. Flanders, J. (2026, June 5). Over 3million unmarried couples to get automatic right to partner’s cash and house sales under huge family law shake-up. The Sun. https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/39316601/unmarried-couples-get-rights-partners-cash-house/
5. Your Relationship. Your Choice. (2026, August 12). Baroness Deech tells Justice Secretary: No public mandate for automatic cohabitation rights. https://yourrelationshipyourchoice.org.uk/press-release
6. “The average number of children a hypothetical cohort of women would have at the end of their reproductive period if they were subject during their whole lives to the fertility rates of a given period and if they were not subject to mortality. It is expressed as children per woman.” World Health Organization. (n.d.). Total fertility rate (per woman). https://www.who.int/data/gho/indicator-metadata-registry/imr-details/123

An emergency government phone alert warning about wildfires sent in August 2026 has once again opened the debate about automated notifications and the risk it poses to victims of domestic abuse.

The alert caused phones to sound a loud alarm and show a warning text message, bypassing any active silent, mute and sleep settings on the phone. The timing was particularly problematic, happening at 7pm on a Friday evening, and with only a few minutes’ official notification that it was coming. For domestic abuse victims who keep a second phone hidden from their abusers, the loud alert could have immediately revealed their phone’s existence and location to their abuser.

According to the BBC (12), the Cabinet Office press release concerning the alert was only posted on their website 15 minutes before it happened. The alert was issued "after a direct request from fire and rescue services" according to Prime Minister Andy Burnham (15). It warned people about the risks of using disposable barbecues, naked flames and fireworks.

Multiple messages

One of the other issues was that even if phones were physically turned off at the time of the alert, when switched again, the alert would still sound unless the alert settings had been previously disabled. Phone owners on social media reported that they had received the alert multiple times. (14)

Domestic abuse victims and second phones

According to Woman’s Aid, a second phone is vital to many in relationships involving domestic abuse and coercive control:

"Survivors of domestic abuse frequently turn to second phones to help them access lifesaving support or flee from abuse." (12)

Padua Eaton of the domestic abuse groups The Harborough Doves said:

“Many people in domestic abuse relationships have a secret second phone in order to keep communication with friends or professionals and this alarm would have alerted abusers immediately.” (13)

Previous alert messages

The government first tested the UK Emergency Alerts system across the UK in 2025. That national test raised the concerns of domestic abuse support groups, including women’s aid charity Solace, who pointed out the safety and economic reasons for a second phone to be kept secret:

“Survivors may hide devices because they use them to seek and receive support, or to seek employment to increase their financial independence.” (10)

In 2025, Lucy Hadley, head of policy at charity Women's Aid said:

"A second phone ... may also be their only lifeline in emergencies. The emergency alerts pose a risk, not only because an abuser could discover a survivors’ second phone, but also because they could use this as a reason to escalate abuse.” (2)

Why do the Government send alerts?

The UK Emergency Alert System is designed to warn people of a life-threatening emergency near them. As the GOV website says:

“The Emergency Alerts system serves a crucial purpose in keeping the public safe. It's used to warn people when there’s a danger to life nearby, including severe weather events like storms or flooding.” (5)

Emergency Alerts will work on all 4G and 5G phone networks in the UK, not older phone models that may not be compatible with the alert system. The government will not know your phone number or current location for your device to be involved in the test.

Alerts and silent modes

If you do not want the test alert to sound on your device, you need to take action now.

The simplest method to prevent unexpected alerts coming through is to turn off your phone completely when not in use. However, the alarm will probably sound again when you switch it back on again, unless you have opted out of alerts altogether (see instructions below). Just switching your phone to silent or sleep mode will NOT prevent the alert coming through. The BBC advises that alerts should not be received if your phone is in "airplane mode".(9)

How to turn off emergency alerts on your phone or tablet

The simplest method to prevent the test alert coming through is to turn off your phone completely. The alert text and sound are done "live", so the phone should not remind you of the text or sound an alarm once it's switched back on again.

However, just switching your phone to silent or sleep mode will NOT prevent the alert coming through. The BBC advises that alerts should not be received if your phone is in "airplane mode".(9)

You can also turn off the test and all future Emergency Alerts in your phone settings as follows:

For iPhone and Apple Devices

- Go to Settings
- Go to ‘Notifications’
- Scroll down to the bottom to the section ‘Emergency Alerts’
- Turn off both ‘Extreme Alerts’ and ‘Severe Alerts’

For Android phones and devices

- Go to Settings
- Find ‘Emergency alerts’
- Turn off ‘Severe alerts’ and ‘Emergency alerts’

On some devices, you have more options under ‘emergency alerts’ so you should turn off ‘Extreme threats’, ‘Severe threats’ and ‘Test alerts’. Your device software may also use different names, such as ‘wireless emergency alerts’ or ‘emergency broadcasts’.

For more information on securing your tech, see the excellent guides from Refuge.

Government advice on turning off the alerts

The government advice is that:

"Women and girls who are subject to domestic abuse and have concealed phones can opt out of the national test either by turning off Emergency Alerts in their phone settings or by switching their phone off."

We might add as experienced family lawyers that this advice equally applies to male victims of domestic abuse. According to the ONS, 1.5 million men were victims of domestic abuse and violence in 2023/24.(4) For more details see our page on domestic abuse against men.

Police advice on turning off alerts for those suffering domestic abuse

Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen advised that:

“It is paramount that every safeguard is taken to protect victims of domestic abuse whose lives could be at risk at the exposure of a secret mobile phone… I would urge all survivors to follow the guidance of how to disable these emergency alerts on their phones to reduce the risk of detection well ahead of the national testing.” (11)

Should I turn off emergency alerts for ever?

These alerts are designed to alert you and your family of imminent danger, so by their very nature, you'll never know when they are coming. You will need to weigh up for yourself the positive benefits of early warning against the risk of phone discovery.

Help for victims of domestic violence and emotional abuse

Abuse does not discriminate and is never acceptable. Anyone can be the victims of domestic abuse, regardless of age, race, background or marital status.

If you are experiencing domestic violence or abuse, the time to act is NOW.

- Call 999 and if possible, get yourself and your children to a place of safety.
- Call the National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 200 0247 (women)
- Call the ManKind confidential helpline on 01823 334244 (men)
- Once you’re safe, contact us for professional legal advice on how to proceed.

We can and will help victims of domestic abuse

If you are a victim of any form of domestic violence, emotional abuse or coercive control, whether male or female, we can help. Please contact us at LGFL Ltd to arrange an urgent consultation. You can also book your initial 1-hour reduced fee advice session. (For qualifying clients, T&Cs apply).

Remember, if you are in any immediate danger, always call 999 for police assistance.

For more information, see our pages on:

- Domestic Violence and Emotional Abuse against women
- Domestic Violence and Emotional Abuse against men

To discuss your situation in complete confidence:

About the author

Anne Leiper is Director and Co-Founder of LGFL Ltd. Anne deals with many of LGFL’s high net worth clients with complex financial matters, who value her determined and informed approach. Her aim is to always achieve the best financial settlement possible for any client.

- Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
- Listed in Chambers and Partners
- Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
- Resolution Member and trained Mediator
- Fully accredited collaborative lawyer
- Accredited Family Lawyer by The Law Society

REFERENCES:

(1) Sky News. (2023). How to turn off UK-wide emergency alert, which could put domestic abuse survivors at risk. https://news.sky.com/story/how-to-turn-off-uk-wide-emergency-alert-which-could-put-domestic-abuse-survivors-at-risk-12859913

(2) Women’s Aid. (n.d.). UK emergency alerts. https://www.womensaid.org.uk/uk-emergency-alerts

(3) GOV.UK. (n.d.). How emergency alerts work. https://www.gov.uk/alerts/how-alerts-work

(4) Mankind Initiative. (n.d.). Statistics on male victims of domestic abuse. https://mankind.org.uk/statistics/statistics-on-male-victims-of-domestic-abuse/

(5) Department for Education. (2025, September). What you need to know about the emergency alerts test on 7 September. Education Hub. https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2025/09/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-emergency-alerts-test-on-7-september/

(6) GOV.UK. (n.d.). Emergency alerts. https://www.gov.uk/alerts

(7) GOV.UK. (n.d.). Emergency alert test: Frequently asked questions. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/emergency-alert-test-frequently-asked-questions

(8) Refuge Tech Safety. (n.d.). Secure your tech. https://refugetechsafety.org/secure-your-tech/

(9) BBC News. (2026). https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c8e1n4d14kro

(10) The Independent. (2025). https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/emergency-alert-uk-text-opt-out-b2818021.html

(11) Durham Police and Crime Commissioner. (2025). PCC urges domestic abuse victims to opt out of government's emergency alert test. https://www.durham-pcc.gov.uk/news/pcc-urges-domestic-abuse-victims-to-opt-out-of-governments-emergency-alert-test

(12) Somerville, E. (2026, August 16). Emergency phone alert put domestic abuse victims at risk, campaigners say. BBC News. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cwyllkz80dlo

(13) HFM News. (2026, August 21). Domestic abuse support group warns emergency alert put victims at risk. https://harboroughfm.co.uk/hfm-domestic-abuse-support-group-warns-emergency-alert-put-victims-at-risk/

(14) Facebook. (n.d.). [Facebook post]. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1717084455237329/posts/4563805200565226/

(15) Brown, B. (2026, August 14). Alarm-ing: Why did I get an alert on my phone? The Government emergency wildfire warning explained. The Sun. https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/40065400/government-emergency-wildfire-alert-explained/

Pre-nuptial agreements (pre-nups) are becoming more common in England and Wales, particularly for younger couples getting married or entering a civil partnership. Pre-nups are definitely on the rise for Gen Z adults, with 41% who are married or engaged having a pre-nup in place(5). According to a 2025 YouGov survey, 59% of those aged 25-49 considered that getting a prenuptial agreement was “a good idea”.(6)

Both pre-nups and post-nuptial agreements (post-nups) set out how your joint assets should be divided if you get divorced or dissolve your civil partnership. It can also help ensure you don’t become liable for your future spouse’s debts, including student debt.

Separation of assets

One of the reasons the pre-nup between newly-weds Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez has caught public attention (apart from the incredible wealth involved) is that it’s a pre-nuptial agreement for a couple who have been together for 10 years and have five children between them.

According to The Sun newspaper (8), Ronaldo and Rodríguez’s prenuptial agreement lays out that their pre-marital assets are kept separate, effectively “ring-fencing” and protecting them in the event of the couple divorcing. This applies from the date of their marriage, so it’s covering a lot of income and assets accumulated whilst living together. It also covers future earning for both.

In Portugal, where the couple got married, this is known as a “regime de separacao de bens” or “separation of assets” agreement. Ronaldo is worth a cool £1billion and has a diverse business empire. Rodríguez’s assets stem from her modelling, acting, fashion label and social media interests. Should the couple split, she would receive £85,000 a month, which sounds a lot until compared to Ronaldo’s contracted daily wage of £488,000+ from Saudi football club Al-Nassr FC.(9)

In Portugal, the “regime de separação de bens” is part of a pre-nup (“convenção antenupcial”) and is legally binding.(10) However, neither pre-nup or post-nup agreements are legally binding in England and Wales - yet.

All change for “qualifying” nuptial agreements

As part of a major set of reforms for financial and other ending relationships entitled “A fairer end to relationships”, the government has been consulting on reforming the current financial remedies on divorce and separation. Part of these proposals cover reforming the law such so that pre and post nups are legally binding. As their consultation document says: (1)

“The consultation proposes introducing qualifying nuptial agreements, enabling couples to decide in advance how finances should be arranged in the event of divorce while ensuring important safeguards to ensure needs are met and to protect against coercion.”

The idea of changing the status of nuptial agreements is nothing new. Two Law Commission reports have already recommended the introduction of legally binding nuptial agreements, so making is happen is certainly taking its time! (3) (4)

Do courts take notice of pre and post nups?

In our experience the answer is yes, but not always, and to a limited extent. For example, a court will not consider a prenup if it would be unfair to either party, or not meet their needs and those of their children. Judges need to strike a balance between statutory law (the legislation) and case law, which are how other judges ruled in other similar cases.

For pre-nups, for example, the Supreme Court ruled in one case that a nuptial agreement should be adhered to providing a couple freely entered into the agreement with a full appreciation of the circumstances, unless it would be unfair to do so. (2)

Pre-nups and post-nups: two key issues

There are two key issues around the adoption of legally binding nuptial agreements.

1. Putting safeguards in place to prevent people being coerced and/or signing an agreement they are not happy with or do not understand.
2. Nuptial agreements should not let people avoid the requirement to meet each other’s needs.

Safeguards

As experienced family lawyers, we welcome the list of safeguards the government are proposing, particularly for those vulnerable to or experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control.

The proposed “Safeguards Required for a Qualifying Nuptial Agreement” include ensuring that any nuptial agreement:

- - - - Is a valid contract that is not misleading and is signed without ‘undue influence’.
      - A Is made by deed, which means it must include a signed statement that the couple individually understand that the agreement will “partially remove the court’s discretion to make financial orders”.
      - Cannot be signed within 28 days of the marriage date or civil partnership registration. (Interestingly, Ronaldo and Rodríguez signed theirs at a public notary’s office in Lisbon the day before their wedding. (8)
      - Must be made after each party has received “disclosure of material information about the other party’s financial situation” (aka full and frank disclosure).
      - Is made with both parties having access to independent legal advice, so they fully understand the legal implications of signing the agreement.
      - Should NOT include clauses whereby either party can waive their rights to legal advice and financial disclosure.
      - Does not allow either party to use a qualifying nuptial agreement to opt out of meeting their children’s needs.

Needs

Defining ‘needs’ in divorce cases is a key component of any subsequent financial resolution ordered by a court.

The government consultation wanted to clarify ‘needs’ further and determine:

“What level of financial provision the court may still require one party to make to the other, where a qualifying nuptial agreement exists but does not make appropriate provision for needs.”

Interestingly, the suggestion is that a narrower definition of needs might apply to those with an existing nuptial agreement over those without one, thus “respecting the autonomy of couples”. In practice, this means focusing on essential needs including:

- - - - Family home / housing
      - Capital funds
      - Income
      - Pensions
      - Children

Discretionary needs would not be considered.

Nuptial agreements for now

The consultation has just closed (at time of writing) but the demand for pre-nups and post-nups (or non-nups, aka cohabitation agreements) is very much ongoing. At LGFL, we have helped hundreds of couples draw up nuptial agreements and cohabitation agreements, safeguarding to a large extent what they bring to their relationship, and what they should be able to take away from it when it ends.

To discuss a nuptial agreement, contact us for your initial consultation as soon as you have fixed a date!

About the author

- Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
- Listed in Chambers and Partners
- Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
- Member of Resolution

REFERENCES:

(1) Ministry of Justice. (2026, June 23). A fairer end to relationships: Consultation document. GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/a-fairer-end-to-relationships/a-fairer-end-to-relationships-consultation-document

(2) Radmacher v. Granatino [2010] UKSC 42, [2011] 1 AC 534, para. 75.

(3) Law Commission. (2014). Matrimonial property, needs and agreements. https://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/ukgwa/20220901105107/ https://www.lawcom.gov.uk/project/matrimonial-property-needs-and-agreements/

(4) Law Commission. (2024, December 18). Financial remedies on divorce. https://lawcom.gov.uk/project/financial-remedies-on-divorce/

(5) Lawford, M. (2026, February 20). The Gen Z prenup boom coming to Britain. The Telegraph. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/02/20/the-gen-z-prenup-boom-coming-to-britain/

(6) Sanghani, R. (2026, April 7). Why Gen-Zers like us are getting prenups. The Independent. https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gen-z-prenup-marriage-millennials-engaged-b2936422.html

(7) Rayment-Ward, E. (2026, August 18). Truth about Cristiano Ronaldo and new bride Georgina Rodríguez's prenup. HELLO!. https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/918412/truth-cristiano-ronaldo-georgina-rodriguez-prenup/

(8) Tomlinson, H. (2026, August 14). Inside billionaire Cristiano Ronaldo’s pre-nup with Georgina Rodriguez with ‘£85,000-a-month allowance if they divorce’. The Sun. https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/40061181/billionaire-cristiano-ronaldo-wedding-georgina-rodriguez-pre-nup/

(9) Brenner, S. (2025, June 26). Ronal-dough Cristiano Ronaldo’s mega new Al-Nassr contract revealed. The Sun. https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/35583551/cristiano-ronaldo-al-nassr-mega-contract/

(10) European Judicial Network. (2024, October 13). Matrimonial property regimes: Portugal. European e-Justice Portal. https://e-justice.europa.eu/topics/family-matters-inheritance/property-marriage-civil-partnerships/matrimonial-property-regimes/pt_en

There have been various family law legislation proposals from the last government of Sir Keir Starmer, but we consider the latest consultation on the rights of cohabiting couples to be particularly important.

What are the government consulting about?

There are three main areas of reform that will affect all families when a relationship ends.

1. 1. Reforming the law of financial remedies on divorce and dissolution
  2. Reforming the law for cohabitants on separation
  3. Reforming the law for cohabitants on intestacy

At LGFL, we are particularly pleased to see efforts being made to level up the legal rights given to married couples and those who are cohabiting

The proposal does focus primarily on closing the gap between cohabiting couples and married couples in terms of one partner dying without making a will (intestate). At present, the law prescribes what a widowed spouse would inherit, but not a cohabiting partner. This can result in the relatives of the deceased sharing the estate rather than the partner.

To address this, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) recently launched a 10-week consultation into changes including:

“Survivors of domestic abuse will get better financial protections when bravely leaving a relationship, regardless of whether they’re married.

Bereaved unmarried partners will have automatic rights to inheritance if a partner dies without a will, reducing stress at one of life’s most difficult times.

Overdue reforms to protect women and meet the needs of modern relationships as the government continues to prioritise tackling VAWG and working people.” (2)

How will the changes affect cohabiting couples?

These proposed changes affect the financial division of assets, currently a yawning gap between the automatic rights of married and civil partner couples and those of cohabitees, such that:

“If one partner dies, the other would be able to inherit their assets in certain circumstances.

In the event of a break-up, one partner could be entitled to a lump-sum payment from the other.” (1)

To qualify, a couple will need to show they have had a child together or have been living together for at least three years.

Escaping from domestic abuse as a cohabitee

If adopted, the proposals would make a fundamental difference to cohabitees living in an abusive and/or coercive relationship and needing to leave.

As Melanie Bataillard-Samuel, Chair of Resolution explained:

“For too long, unmarried partners have been placed at risk of significant financial hardship and uncertainty when their relationship comes to an end through separation or death. The current law … often enables perpetrators of domestic abuse to continue that abuse after a relationship has ended. (This proposal) is a welcome and significant step towards ending the endemic unfairness for cohabiting couples.“ (2)

If you are suffering in an abusive relationship, contact us in complete confidence to discuss your situation and how we can help you.

- Call us
- Email us

If you are in any danger, get yourself and your children out, stay out and call 999 for police assistance.

How to have your say in the consultation

If you wish to have your say, there is a dedicated website for the consultation here: (4)

The government particularly wants to hear the views of those “Who have an interest in the law regarding cohabiting couples and financial provision on divorce in England and Wales.” So if you have strong views, now is the opportunity to share them with the new government under Prime Minister Andy Burnham MP.

Why everyone needs a will

As the government consultation details describes:

“Cohabitants currently have no automatic right to inherit when a partner dies without a will, which can leave surviving or separating cohabitants facing serious financial hardship.” (3)

We always encourage our clients who have not written a will and Lasting Power of Attorneys (LPAs) to do so asap. A valid, clear and well-written will makes the whole process of dealing with your estate after your death so much easier at a time when your family will be grieving. Equally, the pair of LPAs (health and finances) make dealing with the everyday finances much easier for your family if you become incapacitated due to illness, an accident or declining cognitive capability.

AT LGFL, we do not write wills or draw up LPAs ourselves, but we can recommend partner firms who can do so for you. Like most things these days, you can do these yourself online, but working with a professional will writer or experienced solicitor will ensure you get the right legal advice and avoid mistakes and misunderstandings.

Pets allowed - finally

As a boutique family law firm, we see the heartbreak that could happen when couples split and the person moving out could not take the family pet to their rented accommodation. This has now changed. As of 1 May 2026, a landlord cannot refuse a request from a tenant to keep a pet “Without a fair reason”. (5) This should make it easier to move out of the family home and take the dog/cat/rabbit/gecko etc to live in your rented home, subject to suitability of the accommodation.

Expert legal advice for less stressful separations

At LGFL, our decades of experience gives us the knowledge and legal strategies to help you separate from any relationship cleanly, effectively and in safely. To discuss your current situation with one of our Directors in our highly discreet locations in Swallowfield or central Reading:

About the author

- Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
- Listed in Chambers and Partners
- Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
- Member of Resolution

Not every family law dispute involving children or finances needs to end up in court. LGFL Director and experienced mediator Anne Leiper explains how mediation can offer faster dispute resolution for all involved.

When you can’t agree with your partner but neither of you want to take your dispute to court, mediation can be quicker, less stressful and result in a better outcome too. It can also be cheaper as it can avoid court fees and lengthy timescales.

Mediation comes in various formats, so you don’t actually have to meet on the day. You can have your legal team with you in a separate room, or even participate online. At LGFL our aim is to find the best method to enable you to discuss, negotiate and come to a proposed solution without going to court.

Why choose mediation?

Mediation is simply a process that helps you to discuss ways forward without the need for a judge in a court to rule what happens next. By meeting in a safe environment with a mediator present, you can discuss possible solutions for issues concerning your children and financial settlements.

As an experienced mediator currently working towards full accreditation, Anne has seen for herself just how mediation enables people to actively work towards a solution.

There’s also a major advantage in choosing a lawyer mediator like Anne, who has the legal knowledge and practical experience through years of court experience to keep discussions about proposed solutions focused and on track.

How the courts view mediation

The courts view mediation as playing an increasingly important role in helping families resolve matters in a more constructive, efficient and cost-effective way. Mediation that results in a proposed solution also reduces the pressure on court time, and often leads to a better outcome. It’s not just a ‘nice to do’ either: English courts actually insist on separating parents trying mediation first before issuing court applications,

Is mediation suitable for everyone?

When mediation is successful, (and it is very often is), it can result in a long-lasting solution that works for you and your family.

However, we know that mediation may not be suitable in all circumstances. So before any mediation even takes place, we check if it is appropriate and safe for those involved. Anne’s 30 years of family law and mediation experience ensures she can advise on the best format for mediation from the options below.

• Face to face mediation

In ‘standard’ mediation, both of you sit in the same room, face to face, with a mediator present. You can also bring in other professionals to support you, such as your pension advisor, your Independent Financial Advisor, and (if you wish) your own legal team.

• Shuttle mediation

In shuttle mediation, both of you have your own separate room for you and your own legal teams who are there to support and advise you. Your mediator then “shuttles” between the rooms and discuss various options with each person and their team, as a neutral third party.

• Remote mediation

Remote mediation provides another layer of safety and security for those concerned in being in the same building as their ex-partner or spouse. One person can join in remotely and take part via video link alongside their support team. Or indeed both of you can be remote, with Anne hosting the virtual meeting in person from our offices.

Safety and privacy for mediation sessions

At LGFL, our priority is ensuring mediation takes pale in a safe and secure environment. Our countryside offices at Wyvols Court offer several meeting room options, with options for separate entrance and exits. Our Client Liaison team can also arrange staggered entry times to avoid potential face to face confrontations between you and your ex-partner.

Moving forward from mediation

When you’ve provisionally agreed on your issues, we draw up a ‘memorandum of understanding’ for you to check with your legal advisors. If everyone agrees to it, this is drawn up into a formal consent order for filing with the court. This saves on the extended waiting times and expense of a full court appearance.

For more details and to discuss LGFL’s mediation service further:

Mediation FAQs

Q. Why is mediation better than just waiting for a court date?

Mediation has a major advantage of a court appearance: speed. Long waiting times for a court appearance are rarely helpful for families who are already stressed and want to move forward to a solution. Putting everything effectively on hold for months for a court date extends that stress, worry and lack of resolution for everyone involved, including children. A lengthy wait for a court appearance can cause you to second-guess outcomes and change tactics simply due to inactivity, which then results in less than desirable outcomes on the day.

Q. How many mediation sessions will we need?

Mediation does not have a set timetable, so you might require two or three sessions to come to a draft solution.

Q. Why should I choose Anne Leiper as my mediator?

Mediation is both a skill and a passion for Anne, and she is working towards full accreditation with Resolution. To keep her skills up to date, she has recently completed her refresher mediation training to further strengthen her extensive expertise in supporting families through the mediation process.

Anne’s experience of almost 40 years as a family lawyer has given her both exceptional levels of legal insight and a practical understanding of the emotional and personal challenges families can face. Her approach has always been to help her clients navigate difficult discussions with clarity, empathy and balance while remaining focused on constructive solutions.

Q. Why should I choose LGFL for local mediation services?

Our mediation services have helped clients from our local Reading and Thames Valley areas, and increasingly from the London area too. Many clients appreciate mediation as a much more discreet and confidential method of working through issues than in open court, where anyone can be listening (and reporting).

Mediation in a nutshell

As boutique family lawyers, we firmly believe that ANY process that can reduce conflict, create meaningful and lasting solutions, and avoid the costs and lengthy delays of court appearances is worth a few hours of anyone’s time.

For more details:

About the author

Anne Leiper is Director and Co-Founder of LGFL Ltd. Anne deals with many of LGFL’s high net worth clients with complex financial matters, who value her determined and informed approach. Her aim is to always achieve the best financial settlement possible for any client.

Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
Listed in Chambers and Partners
Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
Resolution Member and Mediator working towards accreditation
Fully accredited collaborative lawyer
Accredited Family Lawyer by The Law Society

Article updated 18 June 2026

The 2026 World Cup is in full swing, with supporters from around the world travelling to the US to cheer on their national team. Whilst the news teams inevitably film those flag-draped intrepid fans enjoying a pre-match beer, or cheering on their team in the streets, the majority of football fans will be watching on tv at home. It may be the beautiful game to many, but there is an ugly link between televised football matches and a rise in domestic abuse.

A change in attitude

In anticipation of an increase in domestic violence during the 2026 World Cup, the Local Government Association highlighted two key issues; the need for a change in attitude and the lack of funding:

“While the vast majority of those watching football games are not in any way involved in domestic abuse, data shows a spike in incidents during this time … The World Cup presents us with a vital opportunity to help teach younger people about healthy relationships and how to treat one another with respect as embodied in the ideal of sportsmanship.” (1)

and

“Focus is needed on funding for prevention and early intervention measures that aim to prevent domestic abuse happening in the first place, alongside wider community-based domestic abuse support services and accommodation-based support and refuges.” (1)

That need for attitudinal change is captured by a quote in the headline of a 2018 article for The Conversation (National Centre for Domestic Violence) magazine:

“If England gets beaten, so will she.”(2)

The article suggests various reasons why domestic abuse rises during major football tournament such as the Euros and the WorldCup:

"Supporters approach each match with a strong cultural identity, so they internalise wins and losses.
Matches often take place on weekends and on exceptionally warm days, which again are associated with increases of violence."

The article also highlighted the impact of football-themed marketing leading to increase alcohol sales.

Abuse is never acceptable

If you are experiencing domestic abuse, the time to act is now.

- Call 999 and if possible, get yourself and your children to a place of safety.
- Call a domestic abuse helpline
- Once you’re safe, Contact Us for professional legal advice. We can and will help you.

Different timings for kick-offs

The start time of matches is also important. Thanks to the time zone differences between the North American hosts (USA, Canada and Mexico) and Europe, some matches are being screened live at unsociable/unusual hours. For England (and Scotland) supporters, this usually means later kick-offs, including:

England v Ghana - 9pm BST

England v Panama - 10pm BST

A study by the London School of Economics and Political Science Centre for Economic Performance (CEP) showed that:

- Domestic abuse cases rose when football games kicked off at midday or in the afternoon. When games started after 7pm, however, there was no increase in domestic violence.
- While domestic violence decreases by 5% during games, it increases after games end, to reach a peak of 8.5% 10 hours after the game ended. (3)

This rise in post-match abuse also appeared in research by Lancaster University (4). During the 2002, 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups, reports of domestic abuse on match day increased by:

- 26% whether the England team won or drew
- 38% when England lost
- 11% increase the following day, regardless of the result

in addition, abuse was reported more on weekends, and “reached their peak” when England exited the tournament.

Alcohol and abuse

The link between alcohol consumption and violence has been well established. According to Drink Aware, In 2023/24, victims of violent crime thought the perpetrator was intoxicated in almost 40% of cases. (11)

The same applies to post-match domestic abuse. As Tom Kirchmaier, director of the policing and crime research group at CEP, explained:

“We investigated why domestic abuse is likelier to occur in the aftermath of football games and found that the increase is entirely driven by male-on-female abuse by perpetrators who have drunk alcohol. The increase also only seen between partners living together – there was no similar rise in ex-partner domestic abuse.”(5)

We would also expect that there is the potential for female-on-male or male-on-male abuse too, given the popularity of football amongst women. The reality is that one third of all domestic abuse is against men. (10)

Alcohol not emotions

The CEP research noted that it was the “excessive alcohol consumption that usually follows these events” rather than the heightened emotions that triggered the rise in domestic abuse. It concluded that:

“Delaying the start of the games until the evening and scheduling them on weekdays would help prevent a considerable amount of domestic abuse.”

As experienced divorce lawyers, we know we can’t eradicate the link between football and excessive alcohol. However, the unusual start times for live matches could offset the impact, as those watching live may be doing so in the early hours of the morning. Those watching later on streaming services will likely already know the result.

Local level initiatives

In a bid to support those affected by domestic abuse during Euro 2020, pubs in Wakefield served up pints on special beermats that carried the message “Keep the beautiful game sweet.” A QR code on the mat linked to Wakefield Council’s domestic abuse support website.

As Maureen Cummings, Wakefield Council's cabinet member for communities, poverty, and health, said at the time:

"The rise in reports of domestic abuse during football tournaments is shocking - it is unacceptable and will never be tolerated … Domestic abuse isn't sweet and we want victims and perpetrators to get the support they need.”(6)

Is football just an excuse?

Charities are also concerned that the football may be used as an excuse for otherwise unacceptable behaviour. Farah Nazeer, chief executive of the organisation Women’s Aid, told The Big Issue magazine:

“There’s something in our culture that allows for people to say, ‘oh it was just the football, we had a bit too much to drink’. None of that is acceptable or tolerable. Alcohol consumption and high emotions attached to the game should never be used as an excuse for abuse.”(7)

Chief executive of Refuge, Ruth Davison, agreed:

“While of course football tournaments do not cause abuse – abuse is a choice a perpetrator makes – they can exacerbate pre-existing abusive behaviours. Abuse doesn’t come ‘by appointment’ – it happens all year round.”

Alcohol, football and the NHS

The link between football and alcohol has further implications too. When England played Sweden in the 2018 World Cup,

“Drunken celebrations ... led to a record number of people going to hospital with alcohol poisoning.”(8)

According to NHS England, on that single day there were 711 cases as opposed to the normal Saturday case numbers of 386.

Intimate partner violence (IPV) and the brain

In 2021, The Drake Foundation funded and launched the Drake IPV Study, in association with the University of Glasgow and the University of Edinburgh, to investigate the “lifelong consequences of physical abuse on the brain”. According to the Foundation:

“IPV (intimate partner violence) is common, with global estimates suggesting approximately 30% of women over age 15 years will have been exposed to physical or sexual IPV.” (9)

Now five years into its journey, the Study compares individuals with a history of IPV compared to “matched controls” with no such history in thee key areas:

- Structural and functional brain imaging
- Cognitive test results
- To see if individuals with history of IPV are associated with TBI (traumatic brain injury) exposure.

The Drake IVP study is built on “A growing awareness of the association between brain injury and increased risk of neurodegenerative disease, including dementia.” It is perhaps ironic that the study is by The Drake Foundation, an organisation that has previously conducted studies into sports-related head injuries.

Suffering abuse? Act now

If you are in any immediate danger, always call 999 for police assistance.

If you are a victim of any form of domestic abuse, emotional abuse or coercive control, we can and will help. Please contact us at LGFL Ltd to arrange an urgent reduced fee initial one hour consultation.

About the author

- Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
- Listed in Chambers and Partners
- Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
- Member of Resolution

REFERENCES:

(1) Local Government Association. (2026). Councils stand ready to support victims of domestic abuse during 2026 World Cup. https://www.local.gov.uk/about/news/councils-stand-ready-support-victims-domestic-abuse-during-2026-world-cup

(2) The Conversation. (2018). If England gets beaten, so will she: The link between World Cup and violence explained. https://theconversation.com/if-england-gets-beaten-so-will-she-the-link-between-world-cup-and-violence-explained-99769

(3) London School of Economics and Political Science. (n.d.). England football, alcohol and domestic violence. https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/politicsandpolicy/england-football-alcohol-domestic-violence/

(4) Kirby, S., Francis, B., & O’Flaherty, R. (2014). Can the FIFA World Cup football (soccer) tournament be associated with an increase in domestic abuse? Lancaster University. https://research.lancaster-university.uk/en/publications/can-the-fifa-world-cup-football-soccer-tournament-be-associated-w

(5) London School of Economics and Political Science. (2021). Alcohol, not emotions, responsible for domestic abuse rise after football matches. https://www.lse.ac.uk/News/Latest-news-from-LSE/2021/f-June-21/Alcohol-not-emotions-responsible-for-domestic-abuse-rise-after-football-matches

(6) BBC News. (2021). Leeds domestic abuse cases rise during Euro 2020. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-leeds-57440486

(7) The Big Issue. (2021). Euros 2020 may be catalyst for domestic abuse, charities warn. https://www.bigissue.com/latest/sport/euros-2020-may-be-catalyst-for-domestic-abuse-charities-warn/

(8) Evening Standard. (2018). England World Cup win over Sweden sparked record alcohol poisoning cases in UK hospitals. https://www.standard.co.uk/news/health/england-world-cup-win-over-sweden-sparked-record-alcohol-poisoning-cases-in-uk-hospitals-a4026961.html

(9) The Drake Foundation. (n.d.). The Drake IPV study. https://www.drakefoundation.org/the-drake-ipv-study/

(10) ManKind Initiative. (n.d.). Statistics on male victims of domestic abuse. https://www.mankind.org.uk/statistics/statistics-on-male-victims-of-domestic-abuse/

(11) Drinkaware. (2025). Alcohol consumption UK: Consequences. Drinkaware. https://www.drinkaware.co.uk/research/alcohol-facts-and-data/alcohol-consumption-uk-consequences#crime

Every quarter the Family Court issues statistics covering their caseload. At LGFL we keep a watch on these statistics to spot patterns both in the number of cases and the time from start to conclusion, and generally to be abreast of industry trends.

We also look at major reports such as the Nuffield Family Observatory which tracks trends and patterns in figures released by the Ministry of Justice.

This depth of statistical information enables us to be transparent and pragmatic when advising clients about family law case timings, and trends running alongside the fixed minimum legal timescale for divorce cases in England and Wales.

So, what did we find that can help you in your family law matter or divorce?

The latest divorce statistics

The Family Court Statistics Quarterly: October to December 2025 reveals rising family law case numbers overall but falling for divorce applications. (1)

Divorce applications

The number of divorce applications fell by 5% compared to the same period in 2024 to just under 24,000. Matrimonial matters account for 37% of new cases filed from October to December 2025. This is the first time this Oct-Dec period has featured ‘no fault’ divorce cases, as in 2024, there were still outstanding cases under the previous system. Just under 110,000 divorce applications were made in 2025, a small drop of 1% on 2024.

Divorce timescales

The time taken for divorce cases to progress dropped too:

- - - From application to conditional order, timescales dropped by 5 weeks to 40 weeks.
    - From application to final order, the average time was 65 weeks, down 6 weeks.

Overall, as the MoJ reports:

“In October to December 2025, the median time to conditional order was 28 weeks and 38 weeks to final order.”

To put this into context:

“No fault divorce takes a minimum of 26 weeks (6 months) from application to conclusion as follows:

Take legal advice (optional)

Apply for a divorce

Application received by court

20-week ‘cooling off’ period

Issue of conditional order

Minimum of a further 6 weeks

Apply to the court for a final order

Issue of final order approx. 9-12 months after initial application”(3)

Considering that the legal framework for divorce in England and Wales includes a mandatory cooling off period, any fall in overall timescales is very welcome progress. These timeframes also reiterate that despite what clients may think, online divorce is not quicker.

Interestingly, the number of joint divorce applications rose by 2% to 27% of the total number, perhaps as couples realise it can be better to cooperate and pool resources and information than to go solo. However this isn’t always the case

Other interesting stats

Number of cases

Despite the focus on NCDR (Non Court Dispute Resolution), courts are busier than ever. The number of family court cases during the report timescale (October to December 2025) rose by 4%. This was across most areas of family law, and as the MoJ statistician noted:

“This increase has been driven by both private law and financial remedy cases, with a smaller increase seen in domestic violence remedy cases.” (1)

During 2025, the number of cases rose by 3% overall.

Time taken for court proceedings

Private law cases are taking less time from start to disposal, dropping by an average of 4% compared with the same period last year, and down to 37 weeks in 2025 overall.

Domestic violence remedy orders

There was a 5% rise in the number of orders applied for and made, which at least shows more are seeking the court’s help to obtain protection. 94% of these were non-molestation orders.

Nuffield Family Justice Observatory report

The Nuffield FJO report “Trends in the family justice system in England and Wales in 2025” (2) looks further into the stats issued by the MoJ, to discover the potential drivers in the fluctuations and changes in the case numbers. Their latest report investigated possible drivers for the rise in private law cases, and three really interesting points emerged.

The rise in private law cases

This could result from increasing:

“Social challenges related to the cost-of-living crisis and lack of community provision which could have previously helped to reduce conflict and divert parents from court (such as the capacity of early help or domestic violence services).”

AI chatbots

The report highlighted the possible role of AI chatbots which can:

“Validate feelings and encourage parents to seek court resolution to conflicts as well as support them to make applications.”

At LGFL, we are strong advocates for the efficient and ethical use of AI by all participants in cases. Bookmark our article page here for further insights, or follow our Director and legal AI thought leader Rita Gupta on LinkedIn.

SEND tribunals

Looking more widely across His Majesty’s Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS), the report noted the rise in families resorting to the courts for SEND provision for their child.

“The number of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) tribunals has also risen significantly, with nearly 80% growth over the past two years … It highlights the growing role of the justice system as a mechanism for families to obtain support, resolve conflicts or navigate complex family challenges.”

Whilst these figures are for tribunals, not marital cases, it points to an increasing number of parents seeking SEND provision, not all of whom may stay together forever.

At LGFL, we specialise in divorce and separation for parents of SEND children, with particular knowledge and experience of the Disability issues. For more details see our video series, or contact us:

Representing yourself in court

One of the interesting statistics tucked away at the end of the MoJ figures reveals the number of people choosing to represent themselves in a family court:

“In October to December 2025, the proportion of disposals where neither the applicant nor respondent had legal representation was 48%, up 3%.”

The report noted how “Cases with legal representation take longer on average”. However, it doesn’t explain why. In our experience, self-representation takes up a vast amount of your personal time to prepare, and even then your case is far more likely to be ‘patchy’ in terms of details, evidence and accuracy. These cases simply take less time in court because so much of the important details may not be present, and can be dismissed more quickly. Many who self-represent may not get the outcome they wanted, and not know how to achieve it either.

At LGFL, we offer a boutique level of service so you can be sure your case has been fully researched, evidence and financial details, gained, and properly prepared for submission to the court. We are thorough and determined, and we’ve been called ‘terrier-like’ in our determination to get the best outcome possible for you and your family. That takes considerable time to do properly, both before, during and after court proceedings.

As experienced family lawyers, we work with the other party’s lawyers so you don’t have to. We ask the awkward questions about full disclosure of financial details (a legal requirement). We also take a pragmatic and strategic approach that takes into account long-term future needs for you and your children. We even know the preferences of local family court judges in how they wish evidence presented, and their approaches.

Legal representation is never just a ‘nice to have’. It is an investment in your future supported by experienced legal professionals who will fight your corner at every turn.

“Rita Gupta always makes you feel at ease, and you feel comfortable in explaining your situation. She has a fantastic ability to understand her clients and is always willing to assist further with any questions you may have. I cannot say enough about the excellent service I have received and would totally recommend Rita and her team to anyone.”

“Personally, I cannot fault a single thing Anne Leiper did for me. Her knowledge and experience speak volumes about how she helped me get to the end of a divorce that I didn't think was possible. I came away with a settlement I never thought was achievable.”

Client reviews from Legal 500 2026 (4)

Professional legal advice when you need it most

At LGFL, our 1-hour reduced fee consultation offers you a professional, experienced overview of your circumstances that is both impartial yet empathetic. We offer a personal, boutique service tailored to your personal situation and circumstances. To get the expert advice you need to decide how to move forward:

About the author

Rita Gupta is Co-founder and Managing Director of family law firm LGFL Ltd, serving family law for clients in the Reading and Thames Valley area, across the UK and for international clients involved in UK divorce cases. She has featured as a family law expert on national TV and radio, including BBC Radio 5 Live with Nicky Campbell, LBC, GB News with Darren McCaffrey and local TV and radio.

Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
Listed in Chambers and Partners
Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
Member of Resolution

REFERENCES:

(1) Nuffield Family Justice Observatory. (2025). Trends in the family justice system in England and Wales in 2025. https://www.nuffieldfjo.org.uk/news/trends-in-the-family-justice-system-in-england-and-wales-in-2025

(2) Ministry of Justice. (2026, March 26). Family court statistics quarterly: October to December 2025. GOV.UK. https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/family-court-statistics-quarterly-october-to-december-2025/family-court-statistics-quarterly-october-to-december-2025

(3) Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers. (2025). No-fault divorce: Three years on. https://lgfamilylawyers.co.uk/no-fault-divorce-three-years-on/

(4) The Legal 500. (n.d.). Leiper Gupta Family Lawyers Ltd (LGFL Ltd): Rankings. https://www.legal500.com/firms/4411-leiper-gupta-family-lawyers-ltd-lgfl-ltd/r-england/rankings

Directors Rita Gupta and Anne Leiper have always believed in making family law accessible and understandable. It’s part of their original mission to share their boutique law firm’s approach that ‘divorce is more than just the law’, and our extensive library of videos, articles, interviews and broadcasts have helped establish Rita as an established thought leader in family law cases involving SEND children.

At LGFL, we’ve been recording our informative, helpful and insightful videos since before the term “social media influencer” was used!(1) Since 2014, LGFL’s strategy for reaching out has included:

- At least two articles a month on the website (since 2014)
- Articles for local and national lifestyle and family magazines
- Articles for The Law Society’s blog
- National and TV and radio interviews (more on these below)
- Regular posts on all major social media channels

and of course

- Recording and sharing videos across platforms

Rita has always kept up with the latest devices and tech to make sure she can communicate with all her clients in the way they want to communicate. As a result, she is a dab hand with an iPhone now (!), creating ‘in the moment’ short videos (Reels) that address key topics of concern for clients in around one minute.

Here’s a selection of her most recent:

Our early videos

At LGFL, we aim to make the most of the tech we have at the time to create bespoke content that reflects our boutique style.

We originally set up our YouTube channel on 12 Jun 2017 to celebrate the company’s move from our old offices at Warbrook House in Eversley to our current home here at Wyvols Court. (See that video here: )

That inspired us to record our first ‘talking heads’ legal explainer videos, which were recorded on iPads, used cabled mics, and were lit by car repair halogen lights! They took hours to set up, record, edit, render and upload (remember waiting hours for that to happen?!), but gave us confidence that this method of sharing of information was definitely the way forward.

The tech and video style may seem dated ten years on, but the content in these videos is very much still relevant and regularly viewed on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@lgflltd6283

The COVID pandemic and Zoom videos

The COVID-19 pandemic thrust us all headlong into the brave new world of video calls when meeting in person simply wasn’t possible. AT LGFL, we quickly adapted our working methods to include Zoom and Teams calls, which in turn opened up new possibilities for collaborative videos without needing to be in the same room. Two of our most influential video series emerged as a result.

Divorce and the SEN child (2023)

Our 5 part video series saw Managing Director Rita Gupta in conversation with Andrew Grime a specialist family law barrister from Pump Court Chambers. First released in 2023, it was a ground-breaking series that established LGFL as leading firm in divorce and separation involving SEND children.

3 Questions: Family Law and the impact of COVID-19 (2020)

Very much of its time, this practical guide for Family Law clients on the impact of COVID-19 saw Rita Gupta and Jennifer Lee, Counsel at Pump Court Chambers, offering practical advice to help those seeking legal help in that confusing time.

See the video playlist:

Live on air: the expert voice of LGFL

The local and national media have long come to LGFL for an expert opinion or a quote, but this rose to new heights with the introduction of “no-fault” divorce in April 2023.

In a hectic two days of live interviews, Managing Director Rita Gupta talked listeners and viewers through this massive change in divorce law with, amongst others, Nicky Campbell on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Radio Berkshire, BBC Radio Manchester, LBC, GB News TV, London Live TV, Times Radio, and the Talking Money podcast.

See them all at here.

Almost all of the media she spoke to on that day have since come back for further expert insights and commentary from Rita and Anne.

The golden touch

As part of South Asian Heritage Month in 2024, Rita drew on her own heritage and experiences to create a three part series on Asian divorces, covering:

- Gifts of gold and Asian divorces
- The legal status of Nikkah Namah religious ceremonies
- Divorce rates and the Asian community

Clocking up thousands of views between them, these videos are the most viewed of all LGFL videos at YouTube, reflecting the experience, quality and authenticity of Rita’s insights on these issues.

See all three here:

And there’s more to come

Rita continues to make videos that inform and shed light on issues in family law, alongside new videos from our LGFL team. You can now view LGFL’s videos across our social channels:

- Facebook
- Instagram
- Tiktok
- X/Twitter
- LinkedIn
- YouTube

What family law issue would you like Rita to cover?

We know what interests us here at LGFL, but what would you like to hear about? Feel free to send your suggestions to enquiries@lgfamilylawyers.co.uk for consideration in our 2026 filming schedule.

In person advice at LGFL

We now have welcoming meeting spaces flooded with natural light at our discreet country office at Wyvols Court near Swallowfield. We can meet you in private in complete confidence, as our country house building is home to various businesses and shares a car park with no allocated bays. Even if some did by chance see you arrive, they wouldn’t know which business you were visiting, and we also have a ‘side entrance’ which is very discreet.

LGFL now also have a central Reading meeting space at The Quad, located directly opposite the train station. With great commuter links for both train and bus, plus speedy trains from central London via the new Elizabeth Line, this makes accessing our City-level family law service in Reading easier than ever.

Either way, just contact us at LGFL Ltd to arrange your initial consultation. We can often see you and/or talk to you within 48 hours.

About the author

- Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
- Listed in Chambers and Partners
- Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
- Member of Resolution

REFERENCES

(1) The word ‘influencer’ has been around since the 17th century. The Oxford English Dictionary (https://www.oed.com/dictionary/influencer_n?tab=meaning_and_use#1364157410) cites its earliest usage in 1664. Most researcher agree that the modern use dates back to around 2015, with the rise of easily accessible social channels and the major shift from marketers using blogs to recording videos.

According to the Encyclopaedia Britannica:

“The word influencer and its verb form to influence have been in usage in English since the 14th century and became attached to groups and individuals by the mid-1600s. It comes from the medieval Latin influentia, which means “to flow into.”

https://www.britannica.com/topic/influencer

A new report has highlighted the devastating impact of economic (financial) abuse by a current or ex-partner. The charity Surviving Economic Abuse (Sea) found that in half the domestic homicide reviews (DHRs), over half the deaths from murder or suicide had economic abuse cited in the review. In this updated article, Director Rita Gupta explains why economic abuse has so much impact, and how it is often hidden from view.

A recent report "Hidden risks, fatal consequences: Economic abuse in Domestic Homicide Reviews" looked at over 400 DHRs and found that, from 2012-2024, a victim of abuse had died every 19 days in cases that involved economic abuse and domestic violence.

Sadly, this figure does not surprise me. As a family lawyer specialising in complex divorce, I deal with cases of abuse in relationships every day. I find financial manipulation and abuse as the heart of most if not all cases of coercive control.

I also see just how far-reaching economic abuse is, and how it can affect anyone regardless of ethnicity, class, and economic standing. It is also not gender-specific: men may be subject to crippling demands, excessive spending, etc as part of economic abuse.

What's more, as the report points out, victims are not older people, but:

"Significantly younger, with a mean age of 41 compared to an average age of 52 in cases that did not feature economic abuse from a current or ex-partner."

With increasing forecast of higher energy and food costs as a result of world events, I fear that financial control and abuse will become even more of a danger to those already surviving on what limited funds their abuser chooses to provide them with.

No funds to get out

Once one partner has taken over financial control, the victim is often effectively trapped with no access to funds to leave the relationship. As the Sea report states:

"Economic abuse is really what prevents victims from escaping a dangerous situation, so it really is what keeps them tied to an abuser. And that’s why it’s such a dangerous form of abuse, as well as it being continued long after a victim may have got away from a perpetrator.” (1)

In 2026, the domestic abuse cases I deal with continue to be less about physical abuse, and more about other more subtle levels of abuse, including:

Coercively controlling behaviours
Manipulation
Isolation
Pressure

The report also cited another level of control: economic sabotage. An abuser may seek not just to restrict access but if the relationship ends, to ensure the victim will struggle to establish themselves financially again. This can include running up debt in their name after separation, closing accounts, and even making false accusations to financial organisations such as HMRC.

As the report says:

"As (economic abuse) does not require physical proximity, abusers can continue, escalate and begin abuse following the end of a relationship." (1)

No way out?

All of these behaviours contribute to the ways that financial abuse can make victims feel helpless and with no way to escape, and drive them towards suicidal thoughts as their seemingly only option. I would say right now that there is always a way out, and that the law is on your side, along with the police and agencies that can and will help you.

What is financial abuse?

Economic/financial abuse is defined in the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 as:

"Any behaviour that has a substantial adverse effect on (a victim’s) ability to (a) acquire, use or maintain money or the other property, or (b) obtain goods or services" (5)

That makes it sound very straightforward. In my experience, it is anything but. Economic abuse includes a wide range of controlling activities that separates a victim from access to the finances they would need to escape from an abusive relationship, and for their future life.

Many of our clients have failed to recognise that financial abuse has in fact been happening for a number of years. They have been in denial or found it just too difficult to face. Similarly, they may not need to have considered it, as everything has been paid for. Sadly, on separation, that can lead to financial ignorance, extreme dependence and even not having any credit history if assets have been in their partner’s name.

Three years on from our original article on economic abuse, I am still seeing a rise in high performing professionals who are almost living a double life. They appear to be successful and powerful to the outside world but are virtually powerless at home.

Whilst the statistics would support the case that women are more likely to be abused, men can be victims too, and the harm caused is just as damaging.

How financial abuse ‘works’

The primary aim of any financial abuse is to create an uncertain economic situation such that the victim becomes reliant on their abuser for all things financial.

This isn’t just about withholding cash or access to bank accounts. An abuser may also:

Place all assets in their name and have complete financial control
Misrepresent the parties’ financial position
Enter into financial agreements in the victim’s name, such as credit cards, loans, phone contracts or leasing a car
Coerce their partner into signing over property or assets
Sell possessions or property without their partner’s approval
Close joint accounts and cancel credit cards
Only give the victim an ‘allowance’ and demand a breakdown of all expenditure
Spend a lot on themselves but allowing limited expenditure for the victim and the children

Financial control also enables abusers to trap their victims in abusive relationships through fear of being left financially destitute if they leave. Economic abusers are often very skilled at covering up their abuse, often saying they are being helpful by “managing the family finances”. They can also make outward displays of generosity to others to hide the situation.

The result of this abuse heavily impacts on everyday life. According to a 2019 report by Women’s Aid:

“A quarter of respondents did not have access to money for essentials during abusive relationships.”

Post-separation financial abuse

Financial abuse can also continue long after a couple are divorced or separated.

It can start when victims of abuse who want out so desperately have failed to reach any definite arrangements for children and / or money, or have reached arrangements that are not in their interest. They also may not have made child arrangements with protection around financial arrangements, to provide them with security and regular payments.

Even with an agreement in place, an abuser can make life financially difficult for their ex-partner by:

Withholding funds
Concealing information and failing to provide financial disclosure
Refusing to pay child maintenance or withholding it to manipulate the victim
Using money as threats of means to control

Another method is litigation abuse. Through repeated applications or conduct that can increase the victim’s legal fees whilst they continue to be able to pay for their solicitors. This leads to a huge imbalance of power.

There have been cases where the abuser has stayed in the shared home with the children, without contributing anything financially or refusing to pay child maintenance following a separation.

For male victims, their main concerns around post-separation financial abuse include:

Fear that they will be left with nothing: no home and no ability to rebuild their future
Financial recklessness / excessive spending by their ex-partner
Accruing debts to fund their single life
Unreasonable expectations by their ex, including refusal to seek even part time employment
Unreasonable positions on who pays school fees which is no longer possible due to the same income now running two households
Fear of being presented negatively to their children

Coerced debt and the Economic Abuse Toolkit

One of the stressful results of pre and post-separation economic abuse might be financial institutions chasing victims for debt run up by their partner in their name. As HM Treasury explains:

"Forcing or coercing someone into debt is a common form of economic abuse– this is called coerced debt."

As a result of concerns over coerced debt, the government Fairness Group produced an Economic Abuse Toolkit that enables these institutions to:

"Put in place policies and processes for identifying economic abuse. Ideally, these processes should involve:
• Enabling front-line staff to identify signs of potential economic abuse
• Having clear processes in place to support a customer following a disclosure
• Creating a safe space where disclosure can take place"(3)

Not just partners

Financial abuse can occur in any close relationship, not just with spouses and intimate partners. The National Centre of Domestic Violence lists:

Boyfriends and Girlfriends

Ex-husbands, ex wives, ex boyfriends, ex girlfriends.

Carers or paid support workers

Adult Children

Parent, Guardian or other family member

Other people you live with or see often (4)

Financial abuse - how LGFL can help

As a boutique family law firm, our primary role is to focus on what happens next once you are in a place of physical safety (as far as is possible).

If your separation or divorce has not led to an end to your financial / economic abuse, there are legal measures we can put in place to help you, including:

- Your options for funding legal fees
- Protective orders or injunction to secure the safety of you and your child or children
- An order to exclude a person from a property
- Securing arrangements for children, or protective orders to address any threat of them being removed from a parent’s care. This puts a framework in place around when your children will see the other parent and the process of safe handovers.
- Financial orders, interim and long term to protect financial security and a common way in which coercive control is asserted
- Payment of maintenance mortgages and even school fees

To book your initial reduced fee consultation:

- Call us

- Email us

- Request your consultation online

Rest assured, we will listen, we will advise, and we will take action as required.

About the author

Legal 500 Recommended Lawyer
Listed in Chambers and Partners
Listed Leading Lawyer at Wiselaw
Member of Resolution

SOURCES

(1) Surviving Economic Abuse. (2026, March 5). At least one economic abuse victim dies every three weeks. https://survivingeconomicabuse.org/news/every-three-weeks/

(2) Crown Prosecution Service. (2026, February 6). Domestic abuse. https://www.cps.gov.uk/prosecution-guidance/domestic-abuse

(3) HM Treasury. (2025, March 18). Economic abuse toolkit. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/public-sector-toolkits/economic-abuse-toolkit-html

(4) National Centre for Domestic Violence. (n.d.). Financial abuse support toolkit. Retrieved March 9, 2026, from https://www.ncdv.org.uk/financial-abuse-support-toolkit/

(5) Domestic Abuse Act 2021, c. 17, § 1 (U.K.). https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2021/17/section/1