Why We Sleep- The new science of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker
We all now accept that what we eat and the amount of exercise we get is crucial to our wellbeing and long term health. However the other aspect of our lives that dominates our day to day lives is all but ignored. Dr Matthew Walker is seeking to change this and educate us about how…
Reflective practice-The path to improvement!
Working with separated families is challenging! Every family is unique and requires a unique, sensitive and sophisticated approach. The complexity of families has increased dramatically, and to do justice to our work, every professional needs to understand not only our primary area of expertise, but also sufficient about associated areas to work effectively in a…
Why have a lawyer as advocate?
Background I was recently asked by a colleague (for the purpose of this blog I will call him Jack) to represent him at a conference in the context of a disciplinary investigation in his workplace. Jack was not directly involved in the incident that had created the complaint, but as part of the supervisory structure,…
Autumn Inspiration- “Becoming” by Michelle Obama
During recent regional travel I listened to Michelle Obama read her current autobiography “Becoming”. It was fascinating to hear her tell her own story and answer those questions I had about who she is, the challenges that she has faced along her journey, and how she came to be the wife of Barac Obama. I…
Conversation Series- Expert Reports in Family Law
Join me for the next instalment in our Conversation Series with Hemal Ganatra talking about Expert Reports in Family Law Disputes. We all have to discuss with our clients from time to time the need to have all the relevant information available when making decisions about sharing the family pool of assets. Obtaining a valuation…
Creating Space for Consensus
At a time of crisis, parties can feel stunned and flooded with feelings of shock, disbelief and powerlessness. This can give way to a strong sense of fear, loss and hurt, and then to overwhelming emotions such as sadness, rejection, depression, betrayal and perhaps anger. In this state it is very hard to make sense…
Obligations to minimise the negative impacts of the adversarial system
The current review of the family law system has focused attention on the limitations that lead to dissatisfaction with process and outcome in resolving family disputes. The many responses reflect different views, but there is a common theme regarding the adversarial frame that defines a dispute once it enters the legal system. This is destructive…
What you can expect from the court system
Litigation The inevitable consequence of separation is that decisions will need to be made. In many cases these are easily identified and parties can work together to manage their conflict, and move forward with dignity and minimal cost to themselves, their extended family, friends, and society. In some cases this is not possible…
What to expect from an ICL in Family Dispute Resolution
Operating as both a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner (FDRP) and Independent Children’s Lawyer (ICL) has given me a unique insight into the role of the ICL in Family Dispute Resolution (FDR). My experience is that every ICL has a different approach to FDR and works towards very different outcomes. This leads me to ask the…
The life long impact of Trauma on Children
A recent study has made a strong correlation between childhood trauma and life long social, emotional and health outcomes. Exposure to early adversity affects brain development, and leads to a greater likelihood of engaging in high risk behaviours and developing serious health conditions such as heart disease and cancer. This type of childhood trauma is…