Questions like “Can my ex stop me seeing the children?” or “Am I entitled to half the house?” are some of the most commonly searched divorce-related topics in the UK.

While every family situation is different, understanding the basics can help people feel more informed and prepared during what is often a very emotional time.

Can my ex stop me seeing my child?

One of the biggest concerns separating parents have is whether contact with their children can be restricted or prevented.

In most cases, the courts encourage children to have a meaningful relationship with both parents, provided it is safe and in the child’s best interests. One parent cannot simply decide to stop the other seeing the children without good reason.

If parents cannot agree arrangements between themselves, mediation may help. If this is unsuccessful, an application can be made to the court for a Child Arrangements Order.

The court’s focus will always be on the welfare of the child, rather than the wishes of either parent.

Who gets the house in a divorce?

The family home is central to most negotiations.  Many people assume that ownership determines who keeps the property, but this is not always the case. The court will consider a range of factors, including:

• the needs of any children,
• each person’s financial position,
• income and earning capacity,
• and the availability of alternative housing.

In some situations, the property may be sold and the proceeds divided. In others, one person may remain in the property, particularly where children are involved.

Importantly, moving out of the family home does not automatically mean someone loses their interest in it.

Am I entitled to half of everything?

There is a common misconception that divorce automatically results in a strict 50/50 split of assets.

While equality can be a starting point in some cases, financial settlements are based on fairness rather than a fixed formula. The court will consider the overall circumstances of the marriage, including:

• the length of the relationship and ages of the parties,
• the available and foreseeable financial resources by way of income, capital and pensions
• financial contributions,
• present and future financial needs,
• and childcare responsibilities.

This means outcomes can vary significantly from one case to another.

Can my ex hide assets during divorce?

Financial transparency is a key part of the divorce process.

Both parties are expected to provide full and frank disclosure of their finances. Deliberately hiding assets, failing to disclose savings, or attempting to move money can have serious consequences.

If there are concerns that assets may not have been properly disclosed, legal advice should be sought as early as possible. Solicitors and the courts have various tools available to investigate financial information where appropriate.

Do I need a financial order if we have already agreed everything?

Even where separating couples agree matters between themselves, it is still usually advisable to formalise the agreement through a legally binding financial order approved by the court.

Without this, financial claims may remain open in the future, even after the divorce itself has been finalised.

A properly drafted financial order can provide clarity and certainty for both parties moving forward.

Should I move out before the divorce is finalised?

People often feel pressure to leave the family home immediately after separation, especially where emotions are running high.

However, moving out can sometimes have practical or financial implications, particularly where children are involved or where future housing arrangements have not yet been agreed.

There is no single right answer, and the best approach will depend on the circumstances of the family. Seeking advice before making major decisions can help avoid unintended consequences later.

What happens if we cannot agree?

Not every separation involves lengthy court proceedings. In fact, many disputes can be resolved through negotiation, solicitor-led discussions, or mediation.

However, where agreements cannot be reached, the court can make decisions regarding finances or arrangements for children.

While court proceedings can feel daunting, they are often a last resort after attempts to resolve matters have broken down.

Seeking advice early can help

Divorce and separation can feel overwhelming, particularly when dealing with uncertainty around children, finances, and the future.

Many of the questions people search online begin with:

• “Can my ex…”
• “What happens if…”
• “Should I…”
• or “Am I entitled to…”

Although general information can be helpful, every family situation is unique. Obtaining tailored legal advice at an early stage can help people understand their position, avoid common mistakes, and make informed decisions during an already difficult time.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

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During divorce many people simply want to know: what is normal, what crosses a line, and when should they seek legal advice?  Topics include new partners, boundaries after separation and ongoing disagreements involving children.

Here we explore a few commonly asked questions arising during modern separations.

Can I stop my ex introducing a new partner to the children?

This is one of the most emotionally charged issues separating parents face.

In most cases, a parent cannot control whether the other parent introduces a new partner to the children unless there are genuine welfare or safety concerns.

However, timing and communication can make a significant difference. Difficulties often arise where introductions happen very quickly after separation or where children are struggling emotionally with changes in family life.

The court’s focus will always be on the welfare of the child rather than disagreements between adults. Parents are usually encouraged to approach these situations calmly and avoid placing children in the middle of conflict.

Can recordings of arguments be used in court?

Increasingly, clients arrive with recordings taken during arguments or family disputes.

While recordings can sometimes become relevant in family proceedings, particularly where there are allegations of threats or abusive behaviour, the situation is rarely straightforward.

Secretly recording conversations, particularly involving children, can create additional difficulties and may not always assist a case in the way someone hopes.

Family courts are generally more interested in patterns of behaviour and the overall welfare of children than isolated moments recorded during emotional situations.

Anyone considering relying on recordings should seek legal advice before doing so.

What if my ex is turning the children against me?

Allegations that one parent is undermining a child’s relationship with the other parent are becoming increasingly common.

This can include negative comments, limiting contact, pressuring children to take sides, or involving them in adult disputes.

The courts take these concerns seriously because children generally benefit from having a healthy relationship with both parents where it is safe and appropriate.

At the same time, these situations are often highly emotional and complex. It is important for parents to remain child-focused, avoid retaliatory behaviour, and keep communication constructive wherever possible.

Can I change the locks after separation?

This is another question family lawyers hear regularly.

The answer will depend on factors including property ownership, occupation rights, safety concerns, and whether children are living at the property.

People are often surprised to learn that changing the locks without agreement can sometimes complicate matters further, particularly where both parties have legal rights relating to the home.

Where relationships have become hostile or safety is a concern, legal advice should be sought promptly before taking action.

Should I keep evidence during a separation?

In some situations, yes.

It can be sensible to retain important financial documents, copies of relevant communication, or evidence relating to issues involving children or alleged abusive behaviour.

However, there is a difference between sensibly preserving information and becoming consumed by gathering evidence against the other person.

Family proceedings are rarely helped by escalating hostility or constant surveillance of an ex-partner’s behaviour. A measured and practical approach is usually most effective.

Keeping conflict from escalating

Relationship breakdown is rarely just about legal paperwork. For many people, it involves uncertainty, heightened emotions, concerns about children, and anxiety about the future.

While online information can offer general guidance, every family situation is different. Seeking advice early can often help separating couples understand their position more clearly, avoid unnecessary conflict, and make informed decisions at an already difficult time.

Although general information can be helpful, every family situation is unique. Obtaining tailored legal advice at an early stage can help people understand their position, avoid common mistakes, and make informed decisions during an already difficult time.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post Can I stop my ex introducing a new partner to the children? appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

Stuart is based in our Canary Wharf office, where he runs a solid team undertaking general litigation matters, specialising in commercial and property disputes, together with a strong employment and financial services practice.

This appointment as Partner is a well-deserved recognition of Stuart’s hard work, leadership, and commitment to both our clients and the firm. His contribution since joining us has been essential to the continued stability, growth and success of our Canary Wharf office.

Stuart is the second person to become a partner having followed our Pathway to Partnership programme

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The annual event sees approx 1500 runners, walkers and dancers taking to the streets as one community raising valuable funds for Cameron’s Companions, GXCA and Scannappeal.

Naturally, amongst the comradery was a little competitiveness with the team finishing in various positions with a couple of PB’s.  All in all a great event – well done to our team, the organisers and everyone involved.

See you next year!

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To recap: the RNRB is an extra allowance (currently £175,000) that applies when you leave your home to a direct descendant—typically a child, stepchild, adopted child, or grandchild. It’s on top of the standard nil-rate band of £325,000, and both are transferable between spouses or civil partners.

But what if you don’t leave the home outright? Many people use trusts in their wills—for example, to protect assets for children from a previous relationship, or to provide for a spouse while preserving the capital for the next generation. That’s where the rules get trickier.

The good news is that the RNRB can still apply if the home is left in a qualifying trust. The most common example is a life interest trust (also called an immediate post-death interest trust), where a spouse or child has the right to live in the property or receive income from it during their lifetime.

In this case, HMRC treats the beneficiary as if they own the property for IHT purposes—so the RNRB can still be claimed. But the trust must be set up correctly, and the beneficiary must be a direct descendant.

Where problems arise is with discretionary trusts. If the home is left into a discretionary trust—even if the potential beneficiaries include children or grandchildren—the RNRB usually doesn’t apply. That’s because no one has an automatic right to the property.

There are some exceptions. If the trustees appoint the property out of the trust to a qualifying beneficiary within two years of death, the RNRB can be restored. But this requires careful planning and prompt action.

It’s also worth noting that if the home is sold before death and the proceeds are left in trust, the downsizing rules may allow the RNRB to be preserved—but again, the trust must meet specific conditions.

At our firm, we regularly advise clients on how to structure their wills and trusts to make the most of the RNRB. We’ll help you balance tax efficiency with family protection, and ensure your wishes are carried out without unintended consequences.

If your will includes a trust—or you’re thinking of adding one—it’s essential to get advice on how it might affect your IHT position. The RNRB is too valuable to lose through a technicality.

This article was brought to you by our Wills and Probate solicitors.  You can speak to any of our Wills, LPA and Probate lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, High Wycombe Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on Wills and Probate, Wills and Probate Disputes and Lasting Power of Attorney for Health and for Finances

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post Can you use the Residence Nil-Rate band with a Trust? Here’s what you need to know appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

This role will essentially head up the Private Client department for the Farnham office. The successful candidate will have a full-time secretary/assistant. It is a good opportunity for the right person to build and run their own department.

Please send a CV and covering letter to Andrew Kingston, akingston@kiddrapinet.co.uk

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Buying a home is exciting—but it also comes with legal details that can affect how you use your property. One of the most important things we check for you is something called “covenants” in the property’s title deeds.

What are property covenants?

Covenants are legal rules attached to a property. They can either:

Restrict what you can do (restrictive covenants), such as:

– No building extensions without permission

– No running a business from home

– No parking certain vehicles

– No changes to the outside appearance

– No keeping certain animals

Or, they can require you to do something (positive covenants), like:

– Maintaining a shared fence or wall

– Paying towards the upkeep of a shared driveway

How can a solicitor help protect you in the conveyancing process

Our conveyancing team takes these rules seriously. Here’s how we make sure you’re protected:

1. Thorough property title checks

We carefully review the property’s title deeds to identify any covenants that could affect your plans—whether it’s building an extension, keeping pets, or running a business from home.

2. Clear, practical legal advice

We don’t just point out legal terms—we explain what they mean in plain English. You’ll understand exactly how a covenant might affect your use of the property, and what your options are.

3. Covenant breach investigation

If there’s evidence that a covenant has already been broken (by a previous owner, for example), we’ll investigate and advise you on any risks or liabilities you might inherit.

4. Indemnity insurance

If there’s a risk that a covenant might be enforced—even if it hasn’t been for years—we may recommend indemnity insurance. This is a one-off policy that protects you financially if someone tries to enforce a covenant in the future. It can cover:

– Legal costs if a dispute arises

– Compensation or settlement payments

– Loss in property value due to enforcement

As solicitors we will assess whether insurance is appropriate

– Recommend a suitable policy

– Arrange the cover for you

– Ensure it meets your mortgage lender’s requirements

5. Support for Future Sales

We make sure all covenants are properly disclosed and understood, so you don’t face delays or renegotiations should you decide to sell.

6. Planning vs. Covenant Compliance

We’ll explain the difference between planning permission and covenant restrictions—because getting planning approval doesn’t mean you’re free to ignore covenants.

Real-Life examples of how covenants can work against you

– A homeowner paved over their front garden for parking—only to find out it was against a covenant. They had to remove it and pay legal fees.

– A buyer planned to run an Airbnb, but a covenant banned commercial use. The plan fell through.

Covenants aren’t just legal jargon—they can affect your everyday life as a homeowner. Our job is to make sure you understand them and feel confident in your purchase. From the first title check to arranging insurance and explaining your rights, we’re here to protect your investment every step of the way.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s conveyancing solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the conveyancing lawyers across our offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post Protecting your residential property purchase appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

For many couples, years of shared passwords, accounts, subscriptions, and devices can leave a complex web that is not easily undone. It is only once separation has taken place that people begin to realise quite how much of their personal and financial life is tied together online. Taking the time to untangle these connections is an important step in regaining independence and protecting your privacy.

Where to begin with untangling joint digital habits after separation

For those who have been in long-term relationships, digital habits often evolve out of convenience. One person sets up the household bills, the other manages subscriptions, and over time login details are shared and reused across multiple platforms. While this may have worked during the relationship, it can create uncertainty—and sometimes risk—after separation.

A sensible first step is to take stock of your digital footprint. This includes email accounts, online banking, shopping platforms, cloud storage, and subscription services such as streaming or mobile contracts. It is not uncommon for important accounts to be linked to a shared email address or a partner’s contact details, which can make access difficult if communication has broken down.

Securing your personal information

From a practical and legal perspective, securing your personal information should be a priority. Changing passwords on key accounts, enabling two-factor authentication, and ensuring that recovery details (such as phone numbers and email addresses) are up to date can help protect your data.

It is also worth considering what devices are connected to your accounts. Shared tablets, laptops, or even smart home devices may still allow access to personal information if they have not been reset or updated. While these steps may feel administrative, they are an important part of establishing clear boundaries after separation.

Shared accounts and subscriptions after divorce

Many couples share digital services, from streaming platforms to online shopping accounts. While these may seem minor, they can become a source of tension if not addressed. Agreeing who will retain access, or whether accounts should be closed and reopened individually, can help avoid misunderstandings.

More significantly, some online accounts may have financial implications. For example, online wallets, investment platforms, or business-related accounts may hold funds or generate income. These should be treated in the same way as any other financial asset and considered as part of the overall financial settlement.

Digital assets and sentimental value

Beyond finances, there is also the question of digital assets with sentimental value. Photographs, videos, and shared memories are often stored in cloud-based systems or on shared devices. Deciding how these are accessed or divided can be emotionally sensitive, particularly where both parties wish to retain copies.

While the law does not always provide straightforward answers in these situations, reaching a practical agreement—often with legal guidance—can help avoid unnecessary conflict.

Social media and boundaries

Social media can present its own challenges following separation. Decisions about whether to remain connected online, what to share, and how to manage mutual friends can all carry emotional weight.

From a legal perspective, it is important to remain mindful of what is posted publicly. Comments made in frustration can sometimes escalate disputes or, in more serious cases, be relied upon in legal proceedings. Maintaining a measured and respectful approach online is advisable, particularly where matters are ongoing.

When legal advice may be needed

While many aspects of digital separation can be managed practically, there are situations where legal advice is important. If there are disputes over access to accounts, concerns about misuse of personal information, or questions about digital assets with financial value, seeking guidance can help clarify your position.

In some cases, digital matters will form part of a wider financial settlement, particularly where online businesses, investments, or income streams are involved. Ensuring these are properly identified and addressed can prevent complications later on.

Moving forward with clarity

Untangling your digital life may not be the most obvious priority after separation, but it is an increasingly important one. Taking the time to review and organise your online presence can provide a sense of control during what is often an uncertain period.

With careful steps—and legal support where needed—you can ensure that your digital world reflects your new independence, allowing you to move forward with greater confidence and peace of mind.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post Untangling your digital life after separation appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

Understanding the emotional impact divorce has on children

Children respond to separation in different ways depending on their age, personality, and the level of conflict between parents. Younger children may feel confused or anxious, while teenagers may display anger, withdrawal, or defiance. Even when separation is amicable, children can struggle with feelings of guilt or worry that they caused the break-up.

Acknowledging these emotions is key. Open, age-appropriate conversations about the changes ahead can provide reassurance. Explaining that both parents will continue to care for them, maintaining familiar routines, and avoiding negative talk about the other parent are all practical steps that help children feel secure.

It is equally important to recognise signs of stress or anxiety in children that may require professional support. Family therapists, child psychologists, or counsellors can provide tailored strategies to help children express and manage their emotions safely.

Legal considerations for protecting children

From a legal perspective, the best interests of the child are always paramount. In the UK, this principle is central to all family law proceedings. Parents are encouraged to reach agreements about arrangements for children outside the courtroom whenever possible, but the law provides mechanisms to resolve disputes when agreement cannot be reached.

Child arrangements orders

A Child Arrangements Order (CAO) defines where a child lives and how they spend time with each parent. These orders can be flexible to suit the family’s circumstances, and courts always aim to ensure children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents unless there are exceptional reasons not to do so.

Solicitors play a crucial role in guiding parents through the CAO process, helping them understand the implications of different arrangements, and ensuring proposals genuinely reflect the child’s needs rather than parental convenience.

Consent and parental responsibility

Parents should remember that parental responsibility carries both rights and duties. Decisions about education, healthcare, and religious upbringing require cooperation between parents with shared responsibility. Legal guidance can clarify how these responsibilities are exercised in practice, particularly when parents live apart.

Managing disputes

Disagreements are inevitable in many separations. Solicitors can advise on alternative dispute resolution options, such as mediation, which can help parents resolve disagreements without escalating to court proceedings. This approach is often less stressful for children and can encourage cooperative parenting in the long term.

Practical tips for parents

While legal frameworks provide structure, day-to-day parenting decisions significantly impact how children experience separation. Some practical tips include:

1. Keep communication clear and positive
   Avoid using children as messengers or discussing disputes in their presence. Simple, honest reassurance helps children feel secure.
2. Maintain routines
   Stability in schooling, bedtime, and extracurricular activities can help children feel a sense of normality amidst change.
3. Encourage expression of feelings
   Encourage children to talk about their emotions or use creative outlets such as drawing, journaling, or play. Respect their feelings without judgment.
4. Work as a team where possible
   Even if relationships between parents are strained, cooperative decisions benefit children. Mediation or solicitor-assisted discussions can reduce conflict and ensure fair arrangements.
5. Seek professional support if meeded
   Solicitors can help identify when a dispute may require legal intervention, but recognising emotional needs is equally important. Counsellors or family therapists can provide invaluable support during transition periods.

Balancing legal and emotional priorities

Supporting children through separation is about more than legal compliance—it’s about empathy, communication, and stability. The law provides a framework to ensure children are cared for and have access to both parents, but it cannot replace the reassurance, love, and attention that children need daily.

We aim to guide families through both legal complexities and the emotional realities of separation. By combining clear legal advice with a compassionate approach, parents can make informed decisions that protect their children’s best interests and help them navigate this challenging period with confidence and security.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post Supporting children through parental separation: legal and emotional guidance appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.

Gaslighting in a relationship or marriage

Gaslighting, for example, is not simply disagreement or conflict. It is a sustained pattern of psychological manipulation where one person causes another to question their own memory, perception, or sanity. A partner may deny events that clearly occurred, shift blame, or suggest that the victim is “overreacting” or “imagining things.” Over time, this can leave someone feeling uncertain, anxious, and increasingly dependent on the very person undermining them.

Coercive control in a relationship or marriage

Coercive control often sits alongside gas lighting. It can include monitoring movements, restricting access to money, isolating someone from friends and family, or controlling what they wear, where they go, and who they speak to. These behaviours are not always immediately recognised as abuse, particularly when they are framed as concern, protectiveness, or financial responsibility. However, the cumulative effect is a loss of autonomy and a growing sense of entrapment.

One of the most challenging aspects of domestic abuse is identifying where you are within it. Many people do not see themselves as victims, particularly if there has been no physical violence. They may minimise what is happening, compare themselves to “worse” situations, or feel a sense of loyalty or responsibility towards their partner. Others may recognise that something is wrong but feel unsure about what steps to take, or fear the consequences of doing so.

This is where early support can make a significant difference. Speaking to a trusted friend, family member, or professional can help to bring clarity. There are also specialist organisations and helplines that offer confidential advice and practical guidance. Importantly, these services understand that leaving is not always straightforward or immediately possible. Support is often focused on helping individuals make informed choices at their own pace.

From a legal perspective, there are a number of protective measures available, and a solicitor can play a key role in accessing them. Many people assume that legal intervention only becomes relevant at the point of separation, but in reality, advice can be sought much earlier—often at a stage where someone is still living with, or financially tied to, their partner.

Non molestation orders

One of the most immediate forms of protection is a non-molestation order. This is a court order designed to prevent an abusive partner from using or threatening violence, harassing, or contacting the victim. It can be obtained relatively quickly, often without the other party being notified in advance if there is a risk of harm. Breaching such an order is a criminal offence, which provides an added layer of protection.

Occupation orders

In cases where living arrangements are an issue, an occupation order may also be appropriate. This can regulate who is allowed to live in the family home and, in some circumstances, require an abusive partner to leave. For many individuals, the ability to remain in a familiar environment—particularly where children are involved—can be crucial in maintaining stability during a difficult period.

For those concerned about children, the legal system places significant emphasis on their welfare. Exposure to domestic abuse, even if not directed at the child, is taken seriously. A solicitor can advise on how this may affect arrangements for contact and residence, and what steps can be taken to ensure that children are protected.

Family law changes since October 25

A significant shift in family law in October 2025 has further strengthened protections in this area. The courts are no longer required to begin with the assumption that a child should have equal involvement with both parents. Instead, the focus is firmly on the individual circumstances of the child, with safety and welfare as the overriding priority. Where there is evidence of domestic abuse—including coercive control or emotional harm—the court can now more readily limit or, in some cases, refuse contact altogether. This marks an important move away from a broadly “shared parenting” starting point and towards a more nuanced approach that recognises the lasting impact abuse can have on both children and the parent experiencing it.

A solicitor’s role extends beyond obtaining court orders. We can help clients understand their rights, assess risk, and develop a strategy that prioritises safety. This might involve coordinating with support services, advising on financial matters, or planning for longer-term arrangements such as divorce or child contact. The process is not purely legal; it is often about creating a structured and supported pathway out of a situation that feels overwhelming.

It is also important to recognise that domestic abuse is not confined to any one demographic. It affects individuals across all backgrounds, professions, and income levels. There can sometimes be an added barrier of perception—the idea that abuse does not “fit” with someone’s circumstances, or that seeking help may carry stigma. In reality, abuse often thrives in environments where appearances are maintained and concerns are kept private.

Approaching a solicitor does not have to signal immediate or drastic action. Initial conversations are confidential and focused on understanding the individual’s situation and options. We adopt a sensitive and measured approach, recognising that our clients may be navigating fear, uncertainty, and emotional strain.

If any aspect of a relationship feels controlling, undermining, or unsafe, it is worth taking that instinct seriously. Abuse is not always visible from the outside, but its impact is profound. Legal support is one part of a wider network of help available—and for many, it can be a crucial step towards regaining control and rebuilding confidence.

This article was brought to you by Kidd Rapinet’s family solicitors. You can book an appointment with any of the family lawyers across our other offices in Aylesbury, Canary Wharf, Farnham, High Wycombe, Maidenhead or Slough, using the form provided.  Please use the links provided to find more information on divorce or separation, child arrangements and other areas of family law.

These materials and content have been prepared for the benefit of their viewers/readers. They are intended for marketing purposes only and are of a general nature and do not constitute legal advice applicable to any particular facts or circumstances. Kidd Rapinet LLP and/or the author(s) accept no duty of care, responsibility or liability for any loss or damage which you or any third party may suffer as a result of any reliance or use by you or them of these marketing materials and content, except to the extent it is not legally possible to exclude such liability. If you require legal advice on your own situation, please contact us so we can discuss how we may assist.

The post Domestic abuse thrives in environments where appearances are maintained and concerns are kept private appeared first on Kidd Rapinet.