Family Law and More

In this episode of Family Law and More, Claudia Saxton (Consultant Barrister) and Lisa Edmunds (CEO and Head of Chambers) from Unit Chambers are joined by Dan Knox (Solicitor) to explore one of the most challenging aspects of family law; balancing legal fairness with human emotion during divorce. Drawing on his diverse background, Dan shares powerful insights into how solicitors and barristers can...

In this insightful episode of Family Law and More, Lisa Edmunds (CEO, Unit Chambers) sits down with Amjad Kadhim and Claudia Saxton (Consultant Barristers, Unit Chambers) to explore the role, purpose, and necessity of finding of fact hearings in the family court. The discussion examines where we currently stand with fact-finding hearings, following key developments from Re HN and the President of...

In this episode of Family Law and More, Lisa Edmunds (CEO, Unit Chambers) is joined by Amjad Kadhim and Isabel Hawkins (Consultant Barristers, Unit Chambers) to unpack the Family Justice Council’s May 2025 guidance on covert recordings in family courts. The team explores the ethical, legal, and procedural complexities surrounding the use of covert recordings in family proceedings. They discuss:  -...

In this episode of Family Law and More by Unit Chambers, barristers Isabel Hawkins and Emily Henshaw sit down with Nikki Jayne Potter, a certified Positive Psychology and Alcohol-Free Performance Coach, wellbeing speaker, and founder of Uncork Your Best Self ( https://nikkijaynecoaching.com ). Together, they explore the concept of the “middle lane drinker," those who don’t necessarily identif...

What does Deprivation of Liberty really mean in the context of children and how does it differ from a secure accommodation order? In this important episode of Family Law and More, we’re joined by Misha Ryan, Senior Consultant Barrister at Unit Chambers and leading practitioner in Deprivation of Liberty (DoLs) cases, to unpack a complex and evolving area of law. We explore how DoLs applies specific...

Pensions are often the most valuable, and most overlooked, asset in divorce proceedings. In this episode of Family Law and More, we’re joined by Richard Nobbs of Excalibur Actuaries, a key contributor to the Pensions Advisory Group, to unpack the complexities of pensions on divorce. We explore why pensions matter, how they fit into the broader financial picture, and what family law practitioners s...

The Roma and Traveller communities in the UK have historically faced discrimination, systemic barriers, and deep-rooted misconceptions within the family justice system. Despite legal protections, many families continue to encounter prejudices, lack of cultural understanding, and disproportionate interventions. In this episode, we explore: — The unique challenges faced by Roma & Traveller famil...

Honour-based violence (HBV), forced marriage and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remain hidden forms of abuse, often intersecting with family law cases. While the family courts play a crucial role in protecting victims, many practitioners still struggle to identify and navigate these complex issues. We speak with Afrah Qassim, Founder and CEO of Savera UK, a Merseyside-based national charity worki...

In this special episode, barristers Amjad Kadhim and Bella Tait turn the tables and put CEO and Head of Chambers, Lisa Edmunds, in the hot seat. Recently named Resolution Barrister of the Year 2025, Lisa opens up about what drives her relentless pursuit of change in the legal world, how she handles critics in a disruptor-led chambers and the case that’s left the biggest mark on her career. It’s ca...

The legal profession is known for its high-pressure environment, long hours and relentless workloads—but at what cost? As part of Stress Awareness Month, this episode will explore the critical importance of wellbeing in the legal sector, tackling stigma, burnout and mental health challenges that many barristers and solicitors face. Our expert panel will discuss: — The reality of stress & burno...

The family courts operate behind closed doors, but should they? The issue of transparency in family proceedings has sparked heated debate among legal professionals, journalists, and campaigners. While privacy is essential to protect vulnerable children and families, there are increasing concerns that secrecy allows failings to go unchallenged. In this episode, Lisa and Claudia sit down with Louise...

The role of Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service) in domestic abuse cases is crucial, yet often misunderstood. With the recent updates to the Cafcass Domestic Abuse Practice Policy, we’ll explore how these guidelines impact family court proceedings, child safeguarding, and parental contact arrangements. In this episode, we’ll break down: How Cafcass assesses harm and ris...

In the unpredictable journey to pupillage, resilience is key. Join host Lisa Edmunds in a candid and uplifting conversation with our special guest, Fiona Flemington, as they navigate the challenging topic of handling rejection in pupillage applications and interviews. In this episode of our 'Pupillage Prep' series, Fiona shares her insights on what to do if it's a "no" this time. Drawing from her...

Gear up for success as we guide you through the ins and outs of interview day in the latest instalment of our 'Pupillage Prep' series. Joining Lisa in this episode are Eve Humphries, Practice Manager at Unit Chambers, Isabel Clarke, Pupil Barrister, and Roger Draper, Chairman of Unit Chambers. Together, they share invaluable tips and tricks to help you shine on your pupillage interview day. In thi...

Prepare for a captivating journey into the world of forensic testing as we delve into the critical role of DNA testing in family law cases. In this special episode, we're joined by distinguished guests David Nicholson and Casey Baldwin from DNA Legal, a trailblazing company specialising in drug, alcohol, paternity, and forensic testing. Our expert speakers shed light on the pivotal role of accurat...

Embarking on the journey towards pupillage? Join hosts Bella Tait and Lisa Edmunds in this illuminating episode of our 'Pupillage Prep' series, where we decode the art of approaching the pupillage gateway and crafting stellar written applications. Our distinguished guest speakers, Unit Chambers Chairman Roger Draper and Pupil Barrister Isabel Clarke, bring a wealth of insights to the table. Togeth...

In our latest "Pupillage Prep" episode, we tackle the vital topic of resilience and mental wellbeing throughout the demanding pupillage application process. Our guest, Fiona Flemington , Director of the Insightful Coach and an experienced Executive Coach, shares her invaluable insights. Fiona provides expert advice on the mindsets and skills needed for excellence in today's challenging legal arena...

Join us for a special episode dedicated to the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, observed on November 25th. We're honoured to welcome Lucy Hadley , Head of Policy at Women's Aid, a remarkable guest who sheds light on this crucial day. In this episode, we delve into the impactful work carried out by Women's Aid and the dedicated efforts of our team here at U...

Welcome to our "Pupillage Prep" series, your roadmap to a successful legal career. In this episode, we explore "Becoming a Family Law Barrister at the Self-Employed Bar." Join our discussion with our Consultant Barristers, Isabel and Bella, along with our CEO and Senior Consultant Barrister, Lisa Edmunds. They share their insights and experiences, offering valuable advice for aspiring barristers....

In this special Pro Bono Week episode, we shine a light on the legal professions invaluable contribution of free legal aid to those in need. Meet our extraordinary guests, Emily McCurrie and Chloe Steel , case workers at Advocate . They share profound insights into the importance of pro bono work, especially in family law, where it can be truly life-changing. Led by our dedicated barristers, this...

In this episode we delve into the critical role of digital forensics and cell site analysis. Welcome Ben Chieffo, who brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. With a decade-long career as a detective in Lancashire police, Ben is now the Cell Site Team Lead at CYFOR, a digital forensics investigation company offering invaluable insights into the world of electronic evidence. Ben and CYFOR...

Is there really a place for Arbitration in the family justice system? In this episode we are joined by our Door Tenant and Head of St. Ives Chambers, Elizabeth Issacs KC. As a specialist child law silk and a Family Division Deputy High Court Judge, Elizabeth has a national reputation for a compassionate, pragmatic and strategic approach, excellent advocacy and forensic preparation in complex publi...

What is parental alienation and what isn't it? Join us in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Kate Hellin, consultant chartered clinical psychologist, as she talks with our barristers, Chloë Booth and Bella Tait. To learn more about Dr. Hellin’s experience, take a look at her LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kate-hellin. Kate Hellin's psychological assessment of the parents involved in Lancashi...

This week we’re back to talk about Part 25 Applications with consultant chartered clinical psychologist, Dr. Kate Hellin, who has been undertaking psychological assessments of parents for the family court since 2007. Get an expert's response to the new world of Part 25 applications in this insightful episode. To learn more about Dr. Hellin’s experience, take a look at her LinkedIn: www.linkedin.co...

In Part 2 of our conversations with Daniel Thomas, MD of Chroma, we explore the APCI (Assessment of Parent-Child Interaction) created by Prof. Stine Jacobsen in Denmark. This assessment aims to help families with children aged 5-12 experiencing difficulties with communication, interaction or attachment behaviours. Learn more about these assessments undertaken by Chroma here: https://wearechroma.co...