Big changes have arrived in family law:
For the first time, accredited journalists and legal bloggers in England and Wales can report on divorce proceedings in much more detail.
They can even access case documents and speak with families (as long as identities remain protected).
It’s a move towards greater transparency but what does it mean for people going through divorce?
What’s Changed?
Since 2009, media could attend family court hearings involving children’s wellbeing, but could only report limited details.
Now, following examples set by Australia and New Zealand, the UK has opened the door to more detailed reporting — a shift designed to build public confidence in the family court system.
Sir Andrew McFarlane, President of the Family Division, has long called for this change. In a 2021 review, he argued for a cultural shift in favour of openness and accountability.
Why This Matters to You
This change isn’t just legal news – it could influence the strategy of your / your client’s case.
Here’s how:
- More public scrutiny may lead to faster out-of-court settlements
- Journalists will have more access to report family law responsibly
- Judges still have the discretion to limit or allow what gets shared
- Media training for legal professionals is now being recommended
Put simply, what happens in court may no longer stay completely private. And that changes the dynamic.
Our View as Divorce Consultants
We welcome greater transparency but only when it protects the dignity of everyone involved. Families facing divorce need calm guidance, not added pressure from public exposure.
We are a team of 5 experienced lawyers but, what makes us different to a firm of solicitors, is that we are acting as divorce consultants. We help people navigate the legal maze and stop them making expensive mistakes.
We use our experience of the divorce process to find solutions to lower the temperature and save money.
If the above resonates or you know someone who may benefit from speaking to us, please do contact me. We don’t charge for an initial consultation.