In this episode, family partner Hannah Field is joined by divorce consultant Rhiannon Ford to discuss transparency in the family courts and the role of the media. They look at how open justice functions within family proceedings, when journalists are permitted to attend hearings, and how reporting is balanced with the need to protect children and vulnerable individuals.

This episode covers:

• the principle of open justice in family courts
• circumstances in which journalists may attend hearings
• how reporting restrictions and anonymisation are applied
• how frequently the media is present in practice
• situations where the court may limit press access
• alternatives to court, including private hearings and arbitration

In this episode, family partner Hannah Field continues her discussion with divorce consultant Rhiannon Ford, turning their focus to a crucial stage of the court process: witness preparation. They explore how careful preparation can transform the experience of giving evidence, helping individuals feel more confident, clear and in control when facing questioning in court.

In this podcast we cover:

• what witness preparation involves and why it plays such a key role in court proceedings
• how to organise your thoughts and revisit key documents without over-rehearsing
• practical techniques to communicate clearly, honestly and effectively under pressure
• common pitfalls to avoid, including speculation, over-explaining and becoming defensive
• how to handle difficult or unexpected questions while maintaining credibility
• the importance of staying focused on your own evidence rather than the other party’s case

 Family partner Hannah Field and divorce consultant Rhiannon Ford discuss what people often find most daunting about the family court process. This episode explores what a hearing is really like, how to prepare for giving evidence, and what happens if journalists attend family proceedings. It also touches on privacy concerns, special measures, and alternatives to court for those looking for a more private route to resolution. 

In this series of podcasts, partner Hannah Field from our family law team and divorce consultant and coach Rhiannon Ford discuss the role of a divorce consultant and the benefits using a consultant can have when dealing  with a number of common problems and issues that might potentially disrupt a relationship or lead to divorce. View all podcasts in the current series.

In this podcast we cover:

• Discovering someone is having another relationship
• Supporting a client and managing the feelings of betrayal
• Providing practical advice about the potential of one party wanting to introduce a new person to the children at a very early stage and tips for managing that situation

Russell-Cooke solicitors, Susannah Foden and Shabnam Ali-Khan, discuss drinking culture at legal events, the harm alcohol can cause as well as alternatives to alcoholic beverages and alcohol led events.

In this episode of ‘Let’s Talk’, Hannah Minty, partner in the family team at Russell-Cooke speaks to Sally Nash, a family lawyer and partner at Gilson Gray.

Hannah and Sally discuss the legal position of cohabitants on the breakdown of a relationship in Scotland.  They cover:

• The need for reform in England and Wales and the renewed calls for a framework of basic protections for cohabiting couples now that progress has been made in other areas of family law like ‘no fault’ divorce;
• The legal framework in Scotland and the provision available to separated couples who have cohabited under the  Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006;
• How the Scottish provisions work on a practical basis;
• The call for reform in Scotland and how this might shape the legal protection offered there

If you would like to speak an expert regarding any of the above you can contact us via our enquiry form or by telephone on +44 (0)20 3826 7528.

 In this follow up podcast (listen to part 1), Hannah Minty and Gareth Ledsham re-examine the cross-over between succession law and family law in dealing with issues that arise when a child habitually resident in England and Wales becomes the legal owner of property abroad.  They look at the recent case in which Gareth was instructed of Re BC (A Child), where a Specific Issue Order was secured under the Children Act 1989 and consider the useful guidance provided by Mr Justice Peel on the procedure to be followed in these hybrid applications. 

In this series of podcasts, partner Hannah Field from our family law team and divorce consultant and coach Rhiannon Ford discuss the role of a divorce consultant and the benefits using a consultant can have when dealing  with a number of common problems and issues that might potentially disrupt a relationship or lead to divorce. View all podcasts in the current series.

In this podcast we cover:

• Talking about arrangements for children and how to work these out
• What are parenting plans and how do these work
• Suggestions of what could go into a successful parenting plan

In this series of podcasts, partner Hannah Field from our family law team and divorce consultant and coach Rhiannon Ford discuss the role of a divorce consultant and the benefits using a consultant can have when dealing  with a number of common problems and issues that might potentially disrupt a relationship or lead to divorce.

In this podcast we cover:

• How to tell children about a separation
• Recommendations on resources to assist with difficult conversations
• Discussing the reactions and how to manage them