News & Guides
We specialise in divorce, child arrangements, financial remedy, prenuptials and much more. Call our team to find out your options.
No summary return to China for an abducted child
The High Court was faced with a summary return order (SRO) for a child to a country which is not signatory of the 1980 Hague Convention.
Background:
The father is a British National and the mother
Placement with family members living abroad – there must be some realistic option for the placement to be positive.
The Court of Appeal (CoA) heard an appeal regarding an 18-month-old boy and whether delaying the procedure longer to allow a full assessment of the aunt and uncle, who were put forward by the mother
Can your parents decide where you should live, on the ground that it is in your best interest?
The High Court heard an application for the wardship of a young male wanting to return to the UK and whether the parents’ decision to remove S to Ghana was within their rights of parental
Considering an unlawful foreign surrogacy arrangement – think about it twice!
The High Court took the opportunity given by this case to issue a stark warning to parents considering unlawful surrogacy abroad. As Sir Andrew McFarlane P noted, this case aims to draw attention
Not married? You must prove that you were not at your marriage ceremony
The High Court faced a complex case in which one party alleged that the couple was married in a civil ceremony while the other contended that it was a fraud and that someone had impersonated him. The
Parental orders can be troublesome in cases of anonymous surrogacy
The High Court was faced with a peculiar set of facts in which the biological father, who is also one of the applicants, was known but the biological mother was not.
Background:
Mr. and Mrs. H met
Use the right remedy to a care order!
The Supreme Court dismissed a father’s writ of habeas corpus after he challenged a care order over his children.
Background:
The children, aged 11 and 9, were placed under a care order by DJ
Can a Court revoke an adoption on welfare grounds alone?
The Court of Appeal (CoA) clarified that adoption orders may generally only be set aside on appeal and that the High Court does not have the inherent power to revoke an adoption order.
Legal service payment order in divorce: Ensure that your request is justified
The Family Court addressed complex and high-cost divorce proceedings, focusing on a legal services payment order and its various components.
Background:
This case relates to two applications made
International child abduction: The weight given to objections of the children
The family courts have dealt with various abduction cases over the years and some have had similar factual circumstances. In at least two cases English courts were faced with the children objecting to
Determining a child’s habitual residence
The Court of Appeal (CoA) had to determine the habitual residence of a newborn child to determine which council was responsible for the care of a baby born prematurely.
Background:
G was born
Right to self-identity and a change of given name
The Court of Appeal (CoA) was faced with a question regarding a change of given name.
Background:
C is one of three children caught up in bitter litigation between their parents regarding their
Local authorities have a deeply legislated duty to house children
The Court of Appeal (CoA) reaffirmed the distinction between Section 20 of the Children Act 1989 (CA 1989) and Section 175 of the Housing Act 1996.
Background:
The claimant, a 17-year-old woman, had
Abuse of process – ensure your application brings something new
The High Court dealt with a divorce case ‘as extraordinary as one can imagine’, one that spanned two decades and continents.
Background:
Mr. Taiga, now 77, and Ms. Ogbedo, now 56, were married
Does the ‘right-to-buy’ defy death?
The Court of Appeal (CoA) had to answer whether a family member of a secure tenant has the right to buy posthumously under the Housing Act 1985.
Background:
Mrs. Laura Howe was the secure tenant of
Beware of the use of fertilised embryos without the written consent of the deceased
The High Court was faced with tragic circumstances and the difficult question of whether EF could use an embryo created with his sperm and his late wife’s eggs in treatment with a surrogate.
Recognition of Nigerian adoption
The High Court had to apply the common law test for the recognition of foreign adoption.
Background:
Mrs. O, a Nigerian-born born in 1972, moved to live in the UK with her family circa. 1978. In
Adoption orders where the adoption under the Foreign Element Regulations 2005 have not been fully complied with
The Court heard a case which raised important legal questions regarding the correct interpretation of Section 83 of the Adoption and Children Act 2002 (ACA 2002) and the possibility of making an
The legitimacy of international surrogacy agreements and Parental orders
The High Court faced an application for a Parental Order relating to a surrogacy arrangement made in Germany.
Background:
Mrs. W and Mr. W applied for a Parental Order application for their son F
Material misrepresentation in financial remedy proceedings
The Court of Appeal (CoA) was asked whether the Lower Court should have set a judgement aside based on inaccurate evidence given by the wife and her failure to comply with her duty to give full and
A sub-sale scheme between husband and wife may actually increase the consideration due to HMRC
It is tempting to sub-sell interests in a property to your spouse to avoid paying Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). However, such a scheme could, in fact, backfire and result in a higher consideration being
Negotiating relocation orders for a child
The High Court (HC) recently heard an appeal against a Family Court Order (FCO) permitting a mother to relocate with her child.
Background:
The father and mother met in 2015 and were married in
Selling your spouse’s property to fund your legal costs following a child abduction is not straightforward
The High Court was faced with this very unusual question when a mother did not seek to sequester the father’s property to pay the money she was owed, but rather to fund the costs of her litigation in
No bypassing of Financial Dispute Resolution procedures
The High Court heard an appeal against interim orders, one of which dispense with Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) and proceed straight to a final hearing.
Background:
Various interim orders have
Divorce overseas and ensuing financial provisions
Financial provision after an overseas divorce is regulated under Part III of the Matrimonial and Family Proceedings Act 1984 (MFPA 1984). For the dissolution of a civil partnership, the financial
The welfare of the child is paramount in situations of non-therapeutic circumcision
The High Court rejected a father’s request for a non-therapeutic circumcision of his son who is subject to a care order.
Background:
G is a 16-month-old boy subject to a care order in favour of the
Can a step-parent legally acquire parental responsibility?
The question is often raised as to whether a step-parent living with their partner’s child can acquire parental responsibility and, if so, how. The law is clear that a step-parent who is either
When is moving from supervised to unsupervised contact with children a red flag?
The High Court quashed a lower court decision due to serious procedural errors and the perception of potential harm to the children.
Background:
The parties had been married but, after they
Is parental consent required for the treatment of a minor child?
The High Court was faced with the delicate question of whether parental consent was sufficient for the treatment and restraint of a 12-year-old suffering from severe anorexia nervosa.
Crypto assets: Can I ensure my ex-partner does not sell them before the divorce is finalised?
This was the overarching question at the heart of the decision in Armeniakou vs Thomson, whereby the High Court was asked to apply a worldwide freeing order relating to substantial cryptocurrency
What is an ‘intolerable situation’ as defined under Article 13(b) of the Hague Convention?
The High Court considered the scope of the ‘intolerable situation’ that it must consider under Article 13(b) of the Convention of 25 October 1980 on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction
The immigration status of a child is of paramount importance in care proceedings
The High Court concluded that family proceedings cannot be used to influence the Home Office in making a decision, even if it is in the best interest of the child. Clarifying a child’s immigration
A sperm donor can be the legal father
The Court of Appeal (CoA) confirmed a High Court decision that a sperm donor can be the legal father of a child.
Background:
This case concerned an application by a biological mother (P) regarding
Do you need to notify wider family members of a child’s existence for their adoption?
The question of whether the local authority (LA) can proceed with the adoption of a child without notifying the extended family lies at the heart of the case of CB. Having reviewed all the
SKB Law’s Sarah Khan-Bashir named 2023 Yorkshire Lawyer of the Year at the Yorkshire Legal Awards
New Book Alert: “Understanding Your Rights: An Essential Guide to the Nikah Nama” by Sarah Khan-Bashir
Why We Need More Culturally Inclusive Family Law Mediation Services
Public Sector Pension: Understanding Pension Rights in Divorce
Your Guide to Khula: Navigating Divorce in Islamic Law
SKB Law Launches Aura Network: A New Platform for South Asian Women in Law
How to Navigate Coparenting After Divorce When You’re Both From Different Cultures
Parenting After Divorce: Overcoming Challenges as a South Asian Dad
Divorcing When Your Spouse Doesn’t Live in England: Legal Requirements, Child Arrangements and Division of Assets
Unbundled – SKB Law’s Family Law Coaching Services
I’m getting a divorce, how can I make sure I’m financially protected?
“My Partner Is Turning Our Child Against Me”: Understanding Parental Alienation
Do you think your ex is turning your child against you? Find out the signs of parental alienation and what you can do to stop it.
Cohabiting Guide – What You Need To Know
Cohabitation Agreements are useful for couples who do not wish to marry or for couples who are in a Nikah-only relationship (nikah is unregistered in the UK). They are a good way to put in place financial arrangements if your relationship ends.
Women in Business recognised in The Northern Asian Powerlist 2022
Can I Change My Child’s Name?
Can I Change My Child's Name? Many families...
Sarah Khan-Bashir named Lawyer of the Year in National Law Awards
Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE, founder of SKB Law, has...
No-Fault Divorce – the 5 key changes you need to know
On 6 April 2022, the Divorce, Dissolution and...
Child bride to city champion – Episode 6 of Family Matters
In this episode, divorce lawyer Sarah talks to...
SKB Law shortlisted at Legal Innovation Awards 2022
SKB Law shortlisted at Legal Innovation Awards...
I’ve been served with a non-molestation order, what can I do?
If you’re served with a non-molestation order, providing an undertaking does not mean that you admit to the allegations. You can give the undertaking to the court on the basis that you do not agree with the allegations.
Do grandparents have a right to see grandchildren after a divorce?
Do grandparents have a right to see...
Divorce Lawyer Sarah launches new podcast Family Matters
23 years ago, divorce lawyer Sarah helped her first client Fozia. 23 years later, Fozia joins Sarah as the first guest on her new podcast, Family Matters. They talk about that moment when you know it’s over, dealing with “lok kya kehange” and much more.
SKB Law trainee qualifies as a solicitor
SKB Law celebrates qualification of solicitor...
What happens to my pension when I get divorced?
What happens to my pension when I get divorced?...
Increase in Family Court Fees
Increase in Family Court Fees An increase in...
Why we’ve joined the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse
Why SKB Law joined the Employers' Initiative on...
Children, Court and Cafcass
Children, Court and Cafcass In private law...
Getting help with divorce court fees
Getting help with divorce court fees Did you...
What happens to mahr if you divorce?
What happens to mahr after divorce? We're often...
Sarah makes her podcast debut on Divorced Muslim Dad
Sarah makes her podcast debut on Divorced Muslim...
Divorce, Separation and Your Gold Jewellery. Three Steps You Can Take To Protect Your Assets.
When a couple divorces, their assets such as property, money or jewellery are divided during the financial settlement. Your gold jewellery could become part of the ‘matrimonial pot’. There are a few simple steps you can take to protect your assets and avoid disputes.
Let’s talk about the Nikah Nama. Do you know what you’re signing?
Let's talk about the Nikah Nama. Do you know...
We don’t have a house or any children. Why do I need a Clean Break Order?
Did you know there’s nothing stopping your ex from filing a financial claim against you many years after you finalise your divorce? To protect themselves from any future claims, many people choose to obtain a Clean Break Order. If you need advice, book a free 15 minute consultation with divorce specialists, SKB Law, on 01274 727373.
How to Start Your Own Will Online
How to Start Your Own Will at Home or Online...
3 Lawyers To Be Inspired By – Finalists at The Reisman Awards
3 Lawyers To Be Inspired By - Finalists at The...
How Do You Know If Your Nikah Is Legally Recognised In England?
Find out if your nikah is legally recognised in England and what you can do to protect yourself if your relationship ends.
I’m divorced. Can I see my children during Lockdown?
I'm divorced. Can I see my children during...
Child Arrangements Order COVID-19
Download Now
Divorce + Child Arrangements – What You Need To Know
Download Now
Ready for a change? Join SKB Law’s growing family law team
Ready for a change? Join SKB Law's growing...
Introducing…Legal Stories by SKB Law
Introducing...Legal Stories by SKB Law Over the...
Why SKB Law is building a law firm with social impact
Why SKB Law is building a law firm with social...
Ep1 of Legal Stories by SKB Law – in conversation with Jack Newton
Ep1 of Legal Stories by SKB Law - Jack Newton in...
Divorce and my immigration status: can I remain in the UK?
Divorce and my immigration status: can I remain...
SKB Law joins roundtable with the Law Society Gazette – the future of small law firms
SKB Law joins roundtable with the Law Society...
Your Finance Five – Divorce Planning
Download Now
Join SKB Law at Innovate Legal Online: Building A Virtual Law Firm
Join SKB Law at Innovate Legal Online: Building...
Parenting Plan Guide
Download Now
Why We Use Clio, the #1 Legal Case Management Software
Why We Use Clio, the #1 Legal Case Management...
SKB Law’s founder included in list of Bradford Hall of Fame inductees
SKB Law's founder Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE is...
Islamic Marriage, English Divorce
Islamic Marriage, English Divorce Our founder...
Guest Feature with Little Law – City Firm vs Regional Law Firm?
Guest Feature with Little Law: City or Regional...
SKB Law features on Channel 4 documentary about Nikah Ceremonies
SKB Law features on Channel 4 Documentary about...
SKB Law’s founder invited to speak at UK’s largest legal conference – LegalEx 2020
SKB Law's founder invited to speak at UK's...
A Passion For Justice
A Passion For Justice - Sarah Khan-Bashir MBE...
Divorce Process – one minute guide
Download Now
Round Table Meetings – what are they?
Round Table Meetings - what are they? In this...
Immigration: How To Extend Your UK Visa – Coronavirus
Immigration: How To Extend Your UK Visa -...
Domestic Violence Guide
Download Now
Delivering Digitally: the legal technology we’re using to support clients
Delivering Digitally: the legal technology we're...
The Prosecutor: In Conversation
The Prosecutor: In Conversation On Sunday 19th...
Coronavirus and Travel Bans: what to do if your visit visa is due to expire
Coronavirus and Travel Bans: what to do if your...
Will Instruction Form
Download Now
1 Minute Guide – Will Instruction Form
Download Now
Can children visit separated parents during COVID-19?
Can children visit separated parents during...
Protect your funeral wishes
This week, the coronavirus pandemic raised the...
Wills + COVID19 Guide
Download Now
Wills, Social Distancing and COVID-19
Wills during COVID-19 With coronavirus...
Divorce + COVID-19
Download Now
Divorce + COVID-19 Questions
Lots of people are asking us how the pandemic...
Coronavirus Update
During the coronavirus outbreak, SKB Law’s priority continues to be the health and wellbeing of our people and our clients. Until further notice, we are implementing some precautionary measures to how we work and meet our clients.
Finalist – Inspirational Women In Law Awards
Finalist - Inspirational Women In Law Awards Our...
Fixed Fee Managed Divorce
Download Now
Global Legal Tech firm Clio visits Bradford’s SKB Law
Last month SKB Law welcomed Clio, the global...
SKB Law Top 3 Family Law Firm!
SKB Law is delighted to be listed as one of the...
Finalist: Community Contribution Award 2019
Finalist: Bradford Means Business Awards 2019
We're pleased to announce SKB Law is a finalist...
Divorce law changes – end of ‘blame game’
The UK government is to introduce a new...
Parental Responsibility
Parental Responsibility Parental Responsibility...
Women & Divorce: Minreet Kaur
"I'm divorced, so Sikh men don't want me"...
The SKB Law Academy
The SKB Law Academy We're thrilled to launch the...
Say Hello to SKB Law
We've got some exciting news! From March 2019,...
Three Step Guide to Divorce
It can be difficult to understand what to do...
YBS partners with SKB Law
SKB Law Academy partners with Yorkshire...
EU Nationals: Know your rights
Since the referendum, there has been confusion...
Divorce, Islam and Me: Saima Mir
Women & Divorce: Saima Mir Our...
What is a Contact Order?
A contact order can be obtained from the Family...
Ancillary Relief: What you need to know
You can ask a court to make a ‘financial order’...
Nikah – are you legally married?
Are you legally married? This article seeks to...