As Christmas approaches, many people may be getting ready to propose to their loved one and start the planning of their nuptials ready for the New Year. But sometimes an engagement does not always work out, which poses the question – who gets to keep the engagement ring?

Section 3(2) of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1970 sets out the law on this matter and it is quite straightforward – an engagement ring is presumed to be an absolute gift, and therefore, belongs to the person who receives it. However, this presumption can be rebutted by evidence showing that the ring was given on the condition (either express or implied) that it should be returned if the marriage does not take place. In this case, the recipient would be under no obligation to return the engagement ring.

The Court of Protection was recently concerned with a case where a deputy, Mr Mundell had been appointed to manage…

A leading family judge has criticised a couple who spent in excess of £500,000 on legal fees when the main asset of the marriage was a flat worth £298,377. Expressing her dismay Lady Justice King said, “This is yet another case where a highly educated couple with young children has engaged in lengthy, destructive and disproportionate legal proceedings. “

The moment a Child Arrangements application is issued by the Courts, a copy is not only sent to the Applicant and Respondent, but also an allocated CAFCASS worker. But what is CAFCASS and what is their role in private children’s cases?

Clients seeking legal advice about a divorce will almost always want to understand how the financial dealings and divorce process will work together.Firstly, divorce and finances are two separate legal procedures. You can have a divorce without dealing with finances, but you cannot have a full and final agreement on finances that is legally binding unless you also have a divorce. Our specialist Family solicitors will always advise you to deal with your finances at the same time as the divorce.