United Kingdom: Family and Matrimonial

If you are a separated or divorced parent of an adult child, it might come as a surprise to know that your financial commitments to your children might continue beyond the secondary education. In fact, those financial provisions might stretch well into adulthood if the child remains in full-time education.

For couples who live together without marrying or entering a civil partnership, making a Will carries a lot of weight. It is a common assumption that a long-term relationship provides legal rights similar to marriage, but it does not. No matter how long a couple has lived together, or whether they have children, an unmarried partner has no automatic right to inherit their partner’s estate or deal with its administration.

Where a child enjoys spending time with a parent, and that parent is capable of caring for the child safely, there would ordinarily be compelling reasons for preserving contact between them in the event of a family breakdown. The case Re CX (No 2), however, shows that this is not always enough.

If you are a separated or divorced parent of an adult child, it might come as a surprise to know that your financial commitments to your children might continue beyond the secondary education. In fact, those financial provisions might stretch well into adulthood if the child remains in full-time education.

When families possess valuable heirlooms, artworks, or collectible assets, protecting these items during marriage becomes crucial. How can prenuptial agreements and careful planning safeguard inherited wealth and ensure treasured possessions remain within the family across generations in Hong Kong, Singapore, and England & Wales?

The Mishcon Academy hosted historical novelist Louisa Treger for an intimate discussion exploring the emotional complexities of divorce through the lens of Ruth Ellis's story and other women from history. Drawing from both historical narratives and personal experience, Treger examined how women navigate the challenges of starting over and ultimately find resilience and the ability to thrive after life-altering separations.

For couples who live together without marrying or entering a civil partnership, making a Will carries a lot of weight. It is a common assumption that a long-term relationship provides legal rights similar to marriage, but it does not. No matter how long a couple has lived together, or whether they have children, an unmarried partner has no automatic right to inherit their partner’s estate or deal with its administration.

The Variation of Trusts Act 1958 provides courts with the power to approve changes to trust arrangements when circumstances evolve beyond the original structure. This article examines when trustees should consider applying for court approval, the specific categories of beneficiaries that engage the court's jurisdiction, and how courts assess whether proposed variations genuinely benefit those who cannot consent for themselves.

A Deed of Variation allows beneficiaries to restructure estate distribution after death, potentially avoiding inheritance tax charges, recapturing wasted reliefs, increasing charitable giving, and resolving conflicts arising from outdated wills or intestacy rules. Understanding when and how to use this powerful tool can save families significant tax liabilities while ensuring assets reach their intended recipients.