Current concerns regarding family court proceedings

A recent development in the family courts circuit has been the increase in the number of case of contempt of court applications running alongside standard, legal family disputes.

It is though that court proceedings dealing with family strife are already stressful and contentious, and this added issue can often exacerbate tensions and delays, making legal battles more costly and worrisome. Solicitors in North Wales can support their clients to navigate the complexities of dealing with the legalities of the family court system.

When domestic abuse is thrown in the mix along with complex financial or family dynamics, it becomes easier for warring couples to antagonise each other further with alleged allegations of contempt. Legal experts have examined many of these applications for contempt of court recently and found a high proportion of them simply do not stand legal scrutiny. It has been concluded, therefore, that a large number of the accusations have been made simply due to frustration and a perceived lack of equality in the courtroom.

Currently, the Law Commission is examining this matter and may consider adding an extra step to legal processes – called a permission stage – to look at contempt of court applications in the family court scenario. However, many solicitors believe that this may not be enough to address the problem and further action may need to be taken.

Look to us at Bennett Smith Solicitors for all matters relating to family law. If you have an issue you’d like specific guidance with, contact our office today and make sure you book an appointment to speak to us.