New family legislation comes into force as Wilkin Chapman recruits new family law partner

From April 2022, separating couples will be able to get a divorce/civil partnership dissolution without having to blame each other for the breakdown of their relationship.

This new no fault divorce legislation will end the requirement for a person to demonstrate to the court that one of five statutory facts; adultery, behaviour, desertion or a relevant period of separation of two or five years, exists.

The current legislation came into being almost 50 years ago but times have changed  and the new legislation will not require any evidence of the breakdown of the marriage but will merely require the applicant or, if it is a joint application, the couple to provide a statement of irretrievable breakdown.

Julie Bailey has recently joined Wilkin Chapman as a partner in the family law department in Lincoln, she said;

“Whilst the new legislation is largely heralded as being long overdue and  necessary to bring the law in line with current lifestyles and relationships, it can still have serious implications for both parties when they divorce.

“A specialist family lawyer will be able to guide you through the new procedure and ensure that you avoid any pitfalls, adverse consequences or unfairness that can occur if  specialist legal advice is not obtained.” Julie explains.

Julie has more than 30 years’ experience advising in all aspects of family law, both in relation to married and unmarried clients regarding separation, divorce, complex financial issues,  children disputes, cohabitation and pre and post nuptial agreements. Her passion for family law is borne from her desire to help people through a potentially distressing period in their life.

“The most important part of my role is to build a good relationship with my client. They’re going through difficult circumstances. They don’t need sympathy, but support and guidance to help put the pieces back together when it feels like their world is falling apart.” Julie adds

Having previously worked as managing partner at another law firm in Lincoln, Julie gained a great insight into the challenges brought about from running a business and as a result, her particular specialism lies with financial claims, such as advising on business assets and farming asset division. She also has strong connections with local RAF bases and has been providing advice on the  base at RAF Waddington for more than 10 years.

Julie will work closely with senior solicitor, Lucy Reading and Lisa Boileau, head of the firm’s family law department, who said “I am delighted that Julie has joined us, bringing with her passion and experience that will complement and support our team here in Lincoln.”

Julie Bailey