FLiP Talks: Divorce, Separation & Family Law

FLiP - Family Law in Partnership

Going through divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, confusing, and emotional. FLiP – Family Law in Partnership is here to guide you every step of the way. Our podcast combines expert legal advice with compassionate support, helping all individuals navigate the complexities of family law with clarity and confidence. In each episode, we explore practical solutions from divorce and financial arrangements to child-related matters, and provide insights into NCDR options such as mediation, arbitration, and court processes. We are often joined by third-party specalists, who share advice, strategies, and real-world perspectives to help you make informed decisions while managing the emotional impact of these life changes. Whether you're just starting your journey or seeking reassurance along the way, this podcast is your trusted companion - We help people navigate family change with clarity, care and constructive support in every episode. Change is never easy, but it can be constructive. Subscribe and join us as we face family law challenges together, with guidance from experts you can rely on.

  1. May 12

    Episode 38- Should I Divorce in England & Wales or Ontario, Canada?

    In this episode, Elizabeth Hicks is joined by Oren Weinberg to compare divorce and financial claims in England and Wales with the system in the province Ontario, Canada. The discussion focuses on issues relevant to individuals with connections to both jurisdictions. Looking at both jurisdictions, they cover: Jurisdiction for divorce, including domicile and residency Financial claims on divorce Maintenance claims Claims available to non-married couples Pre- and post-nuptial agreements Key differences between England and Wales and Ontario, Canada. About the speakers: Elizabeth Hicks is a leading expert in complex, cross-border family law matters. She specialises in advising high and ultra-high net worth individuals on divorce, financial remedy disputes, asset protection, and trusts, frequently involving multiple jurisdictions. Her practice also includes complex private Children Act cases and the negotiation of pre- and post-nuptial agreements, often with an international dimension. As a trained collaborative lawyer, Elizabeth is highly experienced in resolving disputes outside of court, including the use of the collaborative process to structure international pre- and post-nuptial agreements. Elizabeth works with a diverse client base, including entrepreneurs, City professionals, and high-profile individuals and their families. Known for her strategic approach and strong advocacy, she combines technical excellence with a deeply client-focused style. Oren Weinberg has practiced family law exclusively since 2005. He advocates for his clients when negotiating agreements, appearing before trial and appellate courts as well as in mediations and arbitrations. Oren handles all aspects of family law including property and support, parental decision-making responsibility (custody), and parenting time (access). Oren acts for clients based in Ontario and internationally. ** Disclaimer: At the time of recording this podcast the proposed reform in England and Wales affecting how finances are divided when relationships end for non married couples had not been announced. To understand more about the consultation, it can be accessed online here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/a-fairer-end-to-relationships.

  2. Apr 17

    FLiP 37 - Should I Divorce in England & Wales or India? Comparing Divorce Laws and Financial Remedies

    In this episode, David Allison is joined by Lavanya Regunathan Fischer to compare divorce and financial claims in England and Wales with the system in India. The discussion focuses on issues relevant to individuals with connections to both jurisdictions. Looking at both jurisdictions, they cover: Jurisdiction for divorce Grounds for divorce and the concept of "irretrievable breakdown" of the marriage Religious vs secular marriage systems in India Financial claims on divorce Pre- and post-nuptial agreements Child arrangements  Claims available to non-married couples * see disclaimer at the bottom of these notes Key differences between England and Wales and India  About the speakers: David Allison is a highly regarded family lawyer and accredited mediator. The focus of his practice is financial claims on divorce, particularly those involving jurisdiction disputes, international asset structures, and families with connections to multiple countries. He works closely with overseas lawyers and professionals to coordinate strategies that protect individual's interests while maintaining a constructive, solutions-focused approach. Known for his calm and thoughtful style, David combines technical precision with a deep understanding of the human context behind each matter he deals with. He supports people through challenging transitions with clear guidance, helping them move forward with stability and confidence. David is a member of both the International Academy of Family Lawyers, where he is chair of the Gender Identity and Sexuality Committee and Secretary to the Executive Committee, and the UK & Ireland LGBT Family Law Institute.  Lavanya Regunathan Fischer began her law practice in 1998, working at J.B. Dadachanji & Co. in New Delhi, then worked for GE Capital in India & USA and eventually for the Solicitor General of India. After relocating to Heidelberg (2003) and then London (2005), she reinvented her practice at the intersection between India and European legal systems. Ever since, Lavanya has been advising on Indian law internationally. Her LLB degree is from the University of Delhi (1998) and her LLM is from the LSE (2006). Lavanya is a member of the Indian Supreme Court Bar Association and her legal scholarship (child custody, guardianship, surrogacy arrangements, migration law and citizenship) has been published in peer-reviewed journals, as book chapters and in newspapers. ** Disclaimers: At the time of recording this podcast the proposed reform in England & Wales affecting how finances are divided when relationships end for non married couples had not been announced. To understand more about the consultation, it can be accessed online here:  https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/a-fairer-end-to-relationships  For clarity, the Special Marriage Act, 1954 which is commonly used by interfaith couples and others seeking a civil marriage, requires a 30-day notice period before a marriage can be solemnised. While this notice process may alert family members or others to the intended marriage and create opportunities for interference, any objections raised must be based on legally recognised grounds under the Act. Familial, social, or community disapproval, by itself, is not a veto over the decision of two consenting adults to marry. India does not presently have a matrimonial property regime under which assets are pooled and divided upon divorce. Questions relating to HUF (Hindu Undivided Family) property, inherited property, and self-acquired property continue to be governed by their respective legal principles, and ownership ordinarily remains with the title holder or person legally entitled to the asset. The point being made here relates primarily to the manner in which courts may consider a spouse's financial resources and access to assets while determining maintenance and other financial relief, rather than suggesting a direct redistribution of ownership in such property.

  3. Apr 14

    FLiP 35 - Should I Divorce in England & Wales or New Zealand? Comparing Divorce Laws and Financial Remedies

    David Allison and Jeremy Johnson  In this episode, David Allison is joined by leading barrister Jeremy Johnson to compare divorce and financial claims in England and Wales with the system in New Zealand. The discussion focuses on issues relevant to individuals with connections to both jurisdictions. Looking at both jurisdictions, they cover: • Jurisdiction for divorce, including domicile and residency • Financial claims on divorce • Maintenance claims • Claims available to non-married couples • Pre- and post-nuptial agreements • Key differences between England and Wales and New Zealand  About the speakers: David Allison is a highly regarded family lawyer and accredited mediator. The focus of his practice is financial claims on divorce, particularly those involving jurisdiction disputes, international asset structures, and families with connections to multiple countries. He works closely with overseas lawyers and professionals to coordinate strategies that protect individual's interests while maintaining a constructive, solutions-focused approach. Known for his calm and thoughtful style, David combines technical precision with a deep understanding of the human context behind each matter he deals with. He supports people through challenging transitions with clear guidance, helping them move forward with stability and confidence. David is a member of both the International Academy of Family Lawyers, where he is chair of the Gender Identity and Sexuality Committee and Secretary to the Executive Committee, and the UK & Ireland LGBT Family Law Institute.  Jeremy Johnson is one of New Zealand's leading barristers. Jeremy is an experienced trial, arbitration and appellate advocate with expertise in relationship property, commercial, shareholder, insolvency, equity and trust law.  Jeremy works across the Asia-Pacific region.  Jeremy is a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), a Fellow of the Arbitrators and Mediators Institute of New Zealand (AMINZ), a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL), and a member of the International Trust Arbitration Organisation Advisory Board (ITAO).

  4. Mar 24

    FLiP 36 - Should I Divorce in England & Wales or Virginia? Comparing Divorce Laws and Financial Remedies

    In this episode, David Allison is joined by leading attorney Katharine Maddox to compare divorce and financial claims in England and Wales with the system in the state of Virginia. The discussion focuses on issues relevant to individuals with connections to both jurisdictions. Looking at both jurisdictions, they cover: Jurisdiction for divorce, including domicile and residency Financial claims on divorce Maintenance claims Claims available to non-married couples Pre and post-nuptial agreements Key differences between England and Wales and Virginia *Update: Effective from July 1, 2026: Viewers and listeners should be aware that the law in Virginia regarding the timeline to file for a divorce has changed since the date of recording. For more information, see Virginia House Bill 303: https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB303/text/HB303  About the speakers: David Allison is a highly regarded family lawyer and accredited mediator. The focus of his practice is financial claims on divorce, particularly those involving jurisdiction disputes, international asset structures, and families with connections to multiple countries. He works closely with overseas lawyers and professionals to coordinate strategies that protect individual's interests while maintaining a constructive, solutions-focused approach. Known for his calm and thoughtful style, David combines technical precision with a deep understanding of the human context behind each matter he deals with. He supports people through challenging transitions with clear guidance, helping them move forward with stability and confidence. David is a member of both the International Academy of Family Lawyers, where he is chair of the Gender Identity and Sexuality Committee and Secretary to the Executive Committee, and the UK & Ireland LGBT Family Law Institute.  Katharine Maddox has practiced family law for over 25 years and is a founding partner of Maddox & Gerock, P.C., a boutique domestic relations law firm located in Northern Virginia.  Katharine is the president of the USA Chapter of the International Academy of Family Lawyers and she is a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers.  Katharine regularly lectures on family law issues throughout the United States as well as internationally.  Further, Katharine frequently publishes articles related to Virginia family law and she is the co-author of the Virginia chapter of an international family law treatise.  In addition to litigating family law matters, Katharine is a strong advocate for Alternative Dispute Resolution:  She is certified by the Virginia Supreme Court as a family law mediator and she regularly engages in the collaborative process.  When not practicing law, Katharine most enjoys spending time with her family and her two rescue dogs, gardening and cooking.    T: 020 7420 5000 or E: hello@flip.co.uk

  5. 11/25/2025

    FLiP 34 - The "Must Knows" If You Are Considering a Move Abroad With Your Children

    In this episode Helen Greenfield and Chloe Oudiz break down the legal steps and practical considerations every parent must know when considering a move abroad with children. This conversation will help you make informed, confident decisions for your family's future. Their conversation covers: • What are the rules surrounding travelling abroad with children on a short and a long term basis? • What applications can be made to deal with any dispute? • What does the process look like once an application is made? • How do you decide which country deals with any dispute? • What factors will be considered by the court in making their decision? • What Non-Court Dispute Resolution options are there to resolve any dispute? • What can be done to prevent a move? The Hague Convention: https://www.hcch.net/en/states/hcch-members About the speakers: Helen Greenfield, Family Solicitor, Family Law in Partnership Helen Greenfield is a Director and Mediator at Family Law in Partnership. Helen advises on all matters relating to family breakdown, divorce and cohabitation. She has a particular interest in helping those who have been affected by domestic abuse. When Helen is mediating, she aims to promote constructive dialogue, reduce conflict, and minimise the emotional and financial strain associated with the more acrimonious processes. https://www.flip.co.uk/profiles/helen-greenfield/ Chloe Oudiz, The Divorce and Separation Coach Chloe Oudiz is a Certified Divorce Coach specialising in helping international families divorce with less conflict. With 17 years experience working in the City and Masters degrees in both Law and in International Affairs, Chloe's support focuses on the business of divorce and helping her clients acquire the right negotiation and conflict management skills to reach agreements out of court. https://thedivorceandseparationcoach.com/

  6. 10/13/2025

    FLiP 33 - Should I Divorce in England or France? Comparing Divorce Laws and Financial Remedies

    Divorcing across borders can feel daunting - especially when the choice of country could shape the outcome especically with regards to the financial settlement. In this episode, David Allison and Isabelle Rein-Lescaterreyes compare the approaches in England & Wales and in France, highlighting the key differences couples should be aware of before deciding where to issue divorce proceedings. Their conversation covers: Jurisdiction for divorce in light of the EU system Issues with sole domicile and The Hague Convention Financial remedy relief in the context of the Matrimonial Property Regime (France) Financial remedy relief under the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 (England) Pre-Nuptial Agreements  Cultural differences in relation to the concept of "needs" Maintenance provision Costs and privacy Jurisdiction races Overseas financial relief in light of Part 3 proceedings About the speakers: David Allison, Family Solicitor, Family Law in Partnership David Allison is a director at Family Law in Partnership and a leading family lawyer with particular expertise in international divorce and financial claims. He represents business owners, entrepreneurs, bankers, lawyers, and their partners, often in high-value cases involving complex jurisdictional disputes and overseas assets. David has extensive experience securing recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments and advising clients on financial relief following overseas divorces. https://www.flip.co.uk/profiles/david-allison/ Isabelle Rein-Lescastereyres, Family Solicitor, BWG Isabelle is a partner at BWG. She is bilingual and has many years of experience in complex international situations, in particular with neighbouring French-speaking and English-speaking countries. Isabelle favours "a realistic and constructive approach in order to maximise chances for a rapid conflict resolution". With her HEC (Ecole des Hautes Etudes Commerciales) training, Isabelle advises individuals, families and trusts and represents them in all aspects of divorce and family law, particularly in dealing with complex patrimonial and financial issues. In particular, she assists French expatriates and foreigners residing in France on family and patrimonial issues relating to their international mobility. https://bwg.law/en/avocat/isabelle-rein-lescastereyres/ Both Isabelle and David are members of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL).

  7. 09/08/2025

    FLiP 32 - International Co-Parenting After Separation

    Helen Greenfield and Chloe Oudiz meet to discuss international, long-distance co-parenting. With insights from their respective experiences, they provide practical tips on how to approach long distance co-parenting. Their conversation covers: Jurisdiction issues which come to light upon separation Who keeps the passports Contact and time spent with the "long distance" parent Parental responsibility Communicating as co-parents The introduction of a new partner The benefit of mediation Top tips for those thinking of embarking on long-distance co-parenting About the speakers: Helen Greenfield, Family Solicitor, Family Law in Partnership Helen Greenfield is a Director and Mediator at Family Law in Partnership. Helen advises on all matters relating to family breakdown, divorce and cohabitation. She has a particular interest in helping those who have been affected by domestic abuse. When Helen is mediating, she aims to promote constructive dialogue, reduce conflict, and minimise the emotional and financial strain associated with the more acrimonious processes. https://www.flip.co.uk/profiles/helen-greenfield/ Chloe Oudiz, The Divorce and Separation Coach Chloe Oudiz is a Certified Divorce Coach specialising in helping international families divorce with less conflict. With 17 years experience working in the City and Masters degrees in both Law and in International Affairs, Chloe's support focuses on the business of divorce and helping her clients acquire the right negotiation and conflict management skills to reach agreements out of court. https://thedivorceandseparationcoach.com/

  8. 05/06/2025

    FLiP 31 - Financial Planning After Separation

    Precis: Kara Swift and Lucy Taylor meet again to discuss financial planning after separation or divorce. Following their recent conversation on how to move from financial vulnerability to financial resilience, Kara and Lucy discuss finances following separation and divorce.  As they explain, the implications of the numbers at the outset can be huge and if you do not have an understanding of the family's finances it can be dauting.  Professionals like Kara and Lucy can help you move forward with confidence. With insights from their respective experience, they provide practical tips on how to approach your finances from the moment of separation. Their conversation covers: Divorce finances (including Form E) Cash flow planning to meet your personal goals and objectives When to get help from legal and financial professionals Personal considerations around returning to work Attitudes towards financial risk Making capital and investments work for you   About the speakers: Kara Swift, Family Solicitor, Family Law in Partnership Kara advises on all areas of family law and has a particular interest in assisting individuals and families with complex financial issues, often with an international dimension. This includes advising on the financial aspects of divorce and the separation of unmarried couples, as well as preparing Cohabitation Agreements and Pre-Nuptial Agreements. Lucy Taylor, Investment Manager, Evelyn Partners Lucy has over 27 years' experience within the investment management industry.  Over her career she has worked in large and small firms helping a broad range of individuals understand and reach their savings goals, including specialising in serious injury.

About

Going through divorce or separation can feel overwhelming, confusing, and emotional. FLiP – Family Law in Partnership is here to guide you every step of the way. Our podcast combines expert legal advice with compassionate support, helping all individuals navigate the complexities of family law with clarity and confidence. In each episode, we explore practical solutions from divorce and financial arrangements to child-related matters, and provide insights into NCDR options such as mediation, arbitration, and court processes. We are often joined by third-party specalists, who share advice, strategies, and real-world perspectives to help you make informed decisions while managing the emotional impact of these life changes. Whether you're just starting your journey or seeking reassurance along the way, this podcast is your trusted companion - We help people navigate family change with clarity, care and constructive support in every episode. Change is never easy, but it can be constructive. Subscribe and join us as we face family law challenges together, with guidance from experts you can rely on.