Kate Ryan, Partner in the Family Team, was recently featured in EPrivateClient sharing her thoughts on what lies ahead for UK family law in 2026.
Commenting on the Supreme Court decision in Standish v Standish (2025) UKSC 26, Kate described the ruling as a “catalyst” for change, providing “welcome clarification” on the treatment of matrimonialised property.
Looking ahead to 2026, Kate highlighted an increased focus on domestic abuse protections, including improved training for judges and court staff, enhanced safeguards for victims, and greater recognition of coercive control and economic abuse. She also noted the rollout of the Pathfinder pilot and a new child-focused CAFCASS Private Law model, alongside continued efforts to expand Non-Court Dispute Resolution to reduce pressure on the courts.
Kate cautioned that challenges remain, pointing to a “significant reduction in family court sitting days”, ongoing gaps in cohabitation law, and the slow pace of surrogacy reform despite its growing importance as a route to parenthood.
To read the full piece, click here.