What does the recent 2024 Spring Budget mean for Family Law?

Family law practitioners were anxiously awaiting the 2024 Spring Budget.

Jeremy Hunt announced an allocation of £170 million to deliver a “justice system fit for the modern era,” with £55 million of this sum designated for the Family Courts.

The government’s objective is to offer clients earlier access to legal advice, online guidelines, and support through non-court dispute resolution, such as mediation, arbitration, collaborative law, private dispute resolution, and round table meetings, to reduce court waiting times.

The government has also announced plans to invest £12 million in Legal Aid to expand the level of early legal advice for child arrangements matters.

Additionally, £15 million will be utilised to enhance digital solutions that support courts with their administrative tasks.

Furthermore, funds have been allocated to the Child Maintenance Service to develop a new online system that will streamline the entire process.

One of the most intriguing initiatives is the “one-stop-shop” guidelines tool, which will encourage parties to resolve their disputes without resorting to court proceedings.

Time will tell how effective these new plans will be.

At Wilson Browne Solicitors, we provide family mediation services and can guide, advise, and facilitate other forms of ADR to help clients resolve their matters promptly and effectively.