A Practical Guide to Menopause and Family Law

This is an essential handbook for any family law practitioner. The last few years have seen a significant increase in awareness of menopausal symptoms and the potentially significant adverse impact they can have on quality of life, ability to work for certain periods of time, relationships, and much more. The average age at divorce has been gradually increasing and now directly collides with the generally accepted "average" age range for onset of menopausal symptoms. A party's menopausal symptoms are now, more than ever, likely to be a relevant factor which should be considered in family law proceedings (to include financial remedy and Children Act matters). This is new territory for practitioners and the judiciary alike. This book will give practical advice to practitioners about how to identify, approach and manage a case in which either or both parties are experiencing symptoms of the menopause. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jennifer Williamson is a Partner at Blake Morgan LLP, based in the firm's Southampton office but regularly working from other locations including London and Oxford. She specialises in family law, undertaking a full range of divorce, financial remedy, and private Children Act work in which she acts for a wide and varied client base. Jennifer regularly features in the legal directories (Legal 500, Chambers and Partners) where she is ranked as a "Next Generation Partner" and "Up & Coming". The flowing published testimonials evidence the high regard for her from clients and fellow practitioners alike. Her technical expertise, proportionate and human approach are particularly noted. Jennifer has been at the forefront of thought leadership about the interplay between menopause and family law. She is passionate about the need for recognition of, and a sensible, balanced approach to, the issues. CONTENTS Chapter One - Why This Is Important Chapter Two - Relationship Breakdown Chapter Three - Approach & Path Chapter Four - Financial Remedy Work Chapter Five - Nuptial Agreements Chapter Six - Children Act 1989 Matters Chapter Seven - Domestic Abuse & Family Law Act Applications Chapter Eight - Cohabitation Matters Chapter Nine - Disability, Protected Characteristics, Ethnic Minorities, Ethnic Groups and LGBTQ+ Chapter Ten - Evidence and Experts Chapter Eleven - Should the Menopause Be Run as an Issue? Chapter Twelve - Family Lawyers and the Menopause Chapter Thirteen - Avoiding Potential Negligence Conclusion