The Government has launched a significant consultation entitled “A Fairer End to Relationships”, proposing some of the most substantial changes to family law in England and Wales for decades. Published on 5 June 2026, the consultation seeks views on reforming financial remedies on divorce, strengthening legal protections for cohabiting couples, and improving inheritance rights for surviving cohabitants. (GOV.UK⁠) The proposals reflect the Government’s aim to modernise family law, improve certainty for separating couples, and provide greater protection for financially vulnerable individuals and children. If implemented, the reforms could have far-reaching implications for married couples, unmarried partners, and family law practitioners alike. Reforming Financial Remedies on Divorce One...

Conveyancing Solicitors Cheadle Whether you’re buying your first home, selling a property, or moving to your next home, choosing the right conveyancing solicitors in Cheadle can make the process significantly less stressful. Property transactions involve far more than simply signing paperwork. From carrying out legal checks to liaising with mortgage lenders and ensuring funds are transferred safely, an experienced conveyancing solicitor helps protect your interests at every stage. At The Eric Whitehead Partnership, we have supported buyers and sellers across Cheadle, Staffordshire and the surrounding areas for many years, providing straightforward legal advice and keeping clients informed from instruction through to completion.   What Does a Conveyancing Solicitor Do? Conveyancing...

Divorce brings many important legal and financial decisions, but one area that is often overlooked is your will. Many people assume that once a marriage ends, their former spouse is automatically removed from their will. While divorce does affect a will, the legal position is more complex than many people realise. Understanding the effect of divorce on a will is essential to ensure your wishes are carried out and your estate is distributed as you intend.   Does Divorce Cancel a Will? No. In England and Wales, divorce does not automatically invalidate an existing will. Instead, once the Final Order (previously known as the Decree Absolute) has been granted, the law generally treats your former spouse or civil partner as though they had died before you for the purposes of your will. This...

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with legal responsibilities afterwards can often feel overwhelming. One of the most important steps in administering an estate is applying for probate, which gives the legal authority to deal with a person’s assets, property, and financial affairs after they have passed away.   At The Eric Whitehead Partnership, we provide clear and practical advice to help families understand the probate process and manage estate administration with confidence.   What Is Probate?   Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate.   If the person who has passed away left a valid Will, the executors named in the Will will usually apply for a Grant of Probate. This legal document confirms their authority to manage the...

Divorce can feel overwhelming, especially when you have to consider emotions, finances, children, and future arrangements all at once. Understanding the legal process can help make the situation clearer and allow you to make informed decisions about the next steps.   At The Eric Whitehead Partnership, we provide clear, practical legal advice to support clients throughout the divorce process, helping them understand their rights and responsibilities while working towards the best possible outcome for their circumstances.   What Is Divorce?   Divorce is the legal process of ending a marriage. In England and Wales, the law now operates under a “no-fault divorce” system. This means that neither person is required to prove wrongdoing or assign blame to apply for a divorce.   Instead,...

The word “divorce” often carries with it an expectation of conflict — long, drawn-out disputes, emotional strain, and escalating legal costs. But in reality, divorce does not have to be a battleground. With the right approach and support, it is entirely possible to separate in a way that is respectful, constructive, and focused on the future. In her latest blog, Lisa Cogger Head of the Family Department & Collaborative Lawyer, announces the firm’s introduction of an alternative approach to family law, designed to help resolve disputes in a more amicable and constructive way – A Different Approach: Resolution Together. Peaceful Partings – amicable divorce ...