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Lawrence Stephens Recognised in Legal 500

Posted on: October 3rd, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens is delighted to share that it has been recognised in the 2026 Legal 500 Directory in the Commercial Property: Occupiers, Property Finance, Residential Property, Retail and Consumer and TMT: Sport categories.

The Sport and Entertainment team’s ranking has improved, moving up to Tier 4, and our Banking and Real Estate Finance teams have maintained their Tier 7 ranking in the very competitive Property Finance category.

We were also pleased to be recognised as a ‘Firm to Watch’ for the first time in the Commercial Property: Occupiers, Residential Property, and Retail and Consumer categories.

This widening of recognition reflects the increased awareness and profile we have achieved with our clients and other legal sector intermediaries.

We continue to grow, undertaking larger and more complex assignments, and these more substantial mandates, increased bench strength and our distinctive approach are helping build our reputation across the board. It is very rewarding to hear our clients talk about our “ability to be commercial, decipher a client’s needs, and provide recommendations accordingly”, we couldn’t have hoped for more.  

Managing Director Steven Bernstein commented: “This is very much a journey. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved and, like our clients, we are ambitious and keen to learn. We look forward to building on these strong foundations”.

Lawrence Stephens Welcomes Two New Directors to Real Estate Finance Team

Posted on: October 3rd, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens is pleased to announce the appointment of two new Directors to the Real Estate Finance team, Joe Jarvis and Josip Stajfer who both join from Arch Law. 

Joe Jarvis brings extensive experience across commercial and residential property finance. Known for his pragmatic approach and strong communication skills, Joe has built a reputation as a trusted legal advisor who consistently delivers high-quality results under pressure. He has acted for a broad range of clients including banks, borrowers, PLCs, overseas investors, and trusts, with particular expertise in development finance and planning matters. 

Joe Jarvis said: 
“I’m excited to be joining Lawrence Stephens at such an exciting time for the firm. I look forward to working with the Real Estate Finance team and continuing to deliver commercially focused, solutions-driven advice to our clients.” 

Josip Stajfer’s practice centres on lender-side transactions, with particular experience in bridging, development, and residential finance. He also brings specialist knowledge in co-living and hotel finance and has advised on a wide range of investment and corporate real estate matters. Josip’s international experience, especially across Central and Eastern Europe, adds a valuable cross-border dimension to the team’s capabilities. 

Josip Stajfer said: 
“Joining Lawrence Stephens is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking and ambitious team. I’m looking forward to supporting our clients across a broad spectrum of real estate finance matters.” 

Together, Joe and Josip’s appointments reflect the firm’s continued investment in building a versatile and high-performing Real Estate Finance team, capable of supporting clients across a wide range of sectors and deal types. 

Ann Ebberson, Director and Head of Real Estate Finance as Lawrence Stephens said: 

“I’m thrilled to welcome Josip Stajfer and Joe Jarvis to our Real Estate Finance team. Both bring outstanding experience, excellent sector knowledge, and strong client relationships that will further enhance our capabilities and broaden our commercial reach. Their appointments mark an exciting chapter for our team, and I’m confident they’ll play a key role in our continued growth.” 

To read more about the Real Estate Finance team’s services, please click here.

Matt Green Shares Expertise on BBC’s File on 4: Investigating Crypto Crime in the UK

Posted on: October 2nd, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Matt Green, Director and Head of Blockchain and Digital Assets, is a regular commentator on all things crypto and recently featured in BBC’s File on 4, one of the UK’s most respected investigative journalism programmes.

File on 4 has built a reputation for in-depth investigative reporting on some of the most pressing topics in society, from political scandals and corporate misconduct to human rights and financial crime. Produced by BBC Radio 4, the programme is known for shaping public understanding and policy on the UK’s most complex issues and has a weekly audience running into millions.

In this episode, which aired on the 30 September, File on 4 investigated the surge in phone thefts across London and the associated theft of funds from online accounts. In 2024 alone, there were up to 80,000 devices stolen in London’s streets and transport network. The loss to users goes far beyond having to replace stolen devices, as gangs are now exploiting unlocked phones to access victims’ online banking and cryptocurrency accounts.

Matt offered his expert insight into why crypto assets are particularly attractive to criminals, and how victims’ funds are emptied and transferred into criminal accounts: “The problem is that there are no regulatory provisions that ensure you can get your money back. You have to spend, as a consumer, a good deal of money paying for investigators and lawyers to seek to recover your funds. That is expensive, it doesn’t always work because funds can be sent to various jurisdictions which don’t always comply with court orders, and it makes the process a lot more difficult. I would like it so that there is some sort of duty or obligation for crypto currency exchanges to play a role in helping consumers and protect them further.”

Known for his work tracing and recovering crypto assets across borders, Matt regularly advises on high-value disputes involving blockchain technology and has helped shape UK legal precedent on digital property. As part of his role as chair of techUK’s Digital Asset Working Group, he is closely involved in the drive to improve regulation to help consumers recover stolen digital assets.

You can listen to the full podcast here, Matt enters the conversation at 29m16s.

To read more about our blockchain, digital and crypto assets services, please click here.

Lawrence Stephens Strengthens Corporate Team With Director Hire

Posted on: September 29th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens is pleased to announce the appointment of Director, Ryan D’Souza, who joins the firm to further strengthen its Corporate & Commercial offering.

Ryan brings with him over 20 years’ experience in corporate and commercial law, advising clients on complex mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, private equity and restructuring matters across a broad range of sectors and jurisdictions.  Ryan’s practice includes advising on corporate and commercial contracts for companies, shareholders and partnerships, with an additional focus on employment law matters. He is particularly noted for his experience in the sale and acquisition of Lloyd’s LLVs, which own underwriting capacity in Lloyd’s of London insurance market and provide capital to the Lloyd’s syndicates. He also advises on legal issues relating to blockchain and crypto-assets, a growing area of interest for the firm’s technology and innovation clients.

With an MBA complementing his legal expertise, Ryan offers clients a commercially attuned perspective that underpins his practical, business-first approach to legal strategy. He is also a Solicitor-Advocate and was called to the Bar by Lincoln’s Inn in 2003, a background which gives him a strong understanding of contentious issues and offers clients added reassurance when navigating high-value, high-stakes transactions.

At Lawrence Stephens, Ryan will play a key role in growing the firm’s Corporate & Commercial team and supporting the wider firm with specialist knowledge of digital asset transactions.

Commenting on his appointment, Ryan said:
“It’s an exciting time to be joining Lawrence Stephens, a firm with a strong entrepreneurial ethos and growing reputation for its expertise in cutting-edge sectors. I look forward to collaborating with colleagues across the firm to deliver strategic advice that meets the needs of our dynamic client base.”

Jeff Rubenstein, Head of Corporate at Lawrence Stephens, commented:
“Ryan’s breadth of experience across corporate and commercial law makes him a great addition to our team. His track record advising on complex transactions, from M&A and private equity to corporate finance and commercial contracts, aligns perfectly with our strategic growth in these areas. In particular, his specialist knowledge of the wider insurance market adds a valuable dimension to our offering. We’re excited to welcome Ryan and look forward to the impact his insight and commercial acumen will bring to our clients.”

What To Do If Your Marriage May Be Over: A Supportive Guide

Posted on: September 29th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

If you’re wondering what to do if your marriage is ending, start with three key actions: speak to a family law solicitor, gather essential financial records, and keep your children’s routines stable.

Realising that your marriage may be coming to an end can feel overwhelming. It’s not just a legal process—it’s an emotional journey, and often one that touches every part of your life. You may be worried about your children, your home, your finances, or even how to begin having the conversation with your partner. Many people feel guilt, confusion, or fear of the unknown.

The important thing to remember is: you are not alone, and you don’t need to have all the answers straight away. Taking small, informed steps now can give you a sense of control and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Here are ten practical and constructive steps to consider:

  1. Speak to a family lawyer early

Even if you’re not sure whether you want to separate, getting clear advice can take away some of the uncertainty. We’ll explain the divorce process, what happens with finances, and how children’s arrangements are dealt with.

Early legal advice helps you understand your options before making big decisions.

  1. Understand how divorce works now

Since April 2022, divorce in England and Wales is “no-fault.” This means you don’t have to blame your spouse for the breakdown of the marriage. This change reduces unnecessary conflict and makes it easier for couples to separate constructively.

You can now apply for divorce without assigning blame—simply stating the marriage has irretrievably broken down.

  1. Organise your finances

Start by pulling together key information on:

  • Assets (homes, pensions, savings, businesses)
  • Income (Salary, dividends, benefits)
  • Debts (Credit cards, mortgages, loans)

You don’t need everything at once, but a broad picture helps. It can be important to record the facts at the date of separation, as these could be important later when financial claims are considered and often there is a delay between separation and dealing with financial claims and facts are lost.

  1. Put your children first

Children’s wellbeing is the court’s first priority. Try to reassure them, keep routines stable, and avoid involving them in adult conflict. If communicating directly is difficult, consider using a parenting app such as OurfamilyWizard, which helps parents to make arrangements, organise schedules and communicate constructively.

  1. Consider mediation

Mediation is a voluntary process where a trained mediator helps you agree on finances and children’s arrangements without going to court. It’s often quicker, cheaper, and less stressful.

  1. Make safe housing arrangements

Think practically about where each of you will live. Will one person remain in the family home? Will the property need to be sold? Taking time to plan calmly avoids unnecessary upheaval later.

  1. Stay constructive in communication

Try to avoid hostile emails, text messages, or social media posts. The way you communicate now sets the tone for negotiations and may influence outcomes if your case reaches court.

  1. Take care of yourself emotionally

Lean on trusted friends or family. Consider counselling or support groups. A divorce is as much an emotional journey as it is a legal one. The end of a long standing  relationship is equivalent to a bereavement, treat it as such and realise it will take time before you come to terms with the situation.

  1. Don’t make rushed financial moves

Avoid transferring assets, cashing in pensions, or moving out of the house without advice or entering into financial arrangements like refinancing mortgages. These decisions can have lasting legal consequences.

  1. Keep the bigger picture in mind

The goal is a fair and workable outcome, not “winning.” A constructive approach reduces cost, stress, and time, and helps everyone move forward with dignity.

Final thoughts

Ending a marriage is never easy, but you don’t need to face it on your own. The law is designed to support both parties and, most importantly, to protect children’s best interests. With the right advice and support, you can move forward into the next stage of your life with confidence.

If you feel your marriage may be ending, contact our family law team today. We’ll guide you through the process step by step—with compassion, clarity, and practical advice to protect your future.

A 10-Point Guide to Prenuptial Agreements

Posted on: September 23rd, 2025 by Alanah Lenten

The idea of getting a prenuptial agreement or ‘prenup’ can be daunting. However we are here to help guide you through the process. 

  1. Understand what a prenup is — and what it is not: a planning tool, not a substitute for fairness or trust; reduces uncertainty

Example:

Clara and David’s prenup defined shared and separate assets.

  1. Timing matters: Begin discussions months in advance; Sign at least 28 days before the wedding

Example:

Sophie and Liam started six months before their wedding.

  1. Financial disclosure: Bank accounts, property, business interests, debts; transparency is essential

Example:

James failed to disclose a business; the prenup was challenged.

  1. Independent legal advice: ensures understanding, fairness, and enforceability

Example:

Anna and Robert had separate solicitors, ensuring confidence.

  1. Fairness is key: Courts consider both financial and non-financial contributions; fairness may not mean equality

Example:

Emma and James had different contributions; prenup reflected both fairly.

  1. Cover the right issues: Property, inheritance, pensions, debts, maintenance; include flexibility for life changes
  1. Plan for change: Review after major life events (children, career, inheritance)

Example:

Emma and James updated their prenup after having twins.

  1. Consider international implications: cross-border assets and legal recognition

Example:

Clara clarified governing law between UK and France.

  1. Think about the emotional side: frame as a planning tool; involve neutral advisers
  1. Choose the right support: specialist solicitors provide tailored, robust agreements

Conclusion

A prenup reduces conflict, recognises contributions, protects assets, and strengthens communication.

Prenups & Emotions: What Couples Should Know

Posted on: September 23rd, 2025 by Alanah Lenten

While prenups are legal documents, their emotional impact is often positive, providing reassurance, clarity, and mutual respect.

Initial Reactions: Anxiety and Misconceptions

Common worries include: “Does my partner think I’m untrustworthy?”, “Am I being selfish?”, “Are we admitting failure?”

Reality: Prenups are about clarity and planning, not mistrust.

 

Turning a Difficult Conversation into a Positive One

Benefits of having a prenup include strengthened communication, increased trust and a reduced potential for future conflict.

Example:

Anna and James initially dreaded discussing a prenup, but it revealed shared values and strengthened their relationship.

 

Reducing Anxiety and Providing Security

Prenups provide reassurance whereby the wealthier partner knows assets are protected and the less wealthy partner knows needs are met

Example:

Liam paused his career for childcare. The prenup protected his financial security and reduced anxiety for both.

 

Protecting Blended Families

Prenups clarify inheritance and property rights, reducing disputes between children and new partners.

Example:

Maria’s prenup ensured her new spouse and children from a previous marriage were both protected.

 

Family Dynamics and Emotional Relief

Clear agreements reassure families, reducing stress and external pressure.

 

Overcoming the “Unromantic” Label

Prenups can be seen as confidence-building and empowering

 

Conflict Prevention: Emotional Safety Net

Prenups provide clear expectations, reducing stress if separation occurs.

Example:

John and Emma’s prenup reduced conflict and emotional strain during their separation.

 

Independent Legal Advice and Emotional Assurance

Separate legal advice ensures understanding, fairness, and emotional security.

 

Real-Life Experiences

Couples report stronger communication, a recognition of contributions and reduced levels of anxiety and disputes

 

Conclusion

Handled thoughtfully, prenups strengthen relationships, provide clarity, and ensure fairness.

Love, Law, and Prenups: What People Really Think

Posted on: September 23rd, 2025 by Alanah Lenten

Prenuptial agreements have long been a topic of debate and misconception. For many years, they were viewed as rare, elitist, or even unromantic, often associated with wealth or distrust. However, societal attitudes have evolved, and prenups are increasingly recognised as practical, responsible, and even empowering tools for couples planning a future together.

Historically in England and Wales, prenups were largely ignored by the courts. Marriage was viewed as a lifelong commitment, and attempts to predetermine financial outcomes were often considered invalid. This changed with the landmark case of Radmacher v Granatino in 2010, when the Supreme Court confirmed that a fair prenuptial agreement should be given decisive weight unless it would be unjust to enforce it. This legal recognition has encouraged couples to consider prenups as a standard part of relationship planning, rather than something only for the wealthy or high-profile.

Despite legal acceptance, social misconceptions remain. Some people worry that discussing a prenup suggests a lack of trust, while others see them as unromantic or unnecessary. Media portrayals of celebrity divorces often reinforce these ideas, presenting prenups either as a source of conflict or as tools used solely to protect wealth. In reality, prenups are about clarity, fairness, and planning — they protect both parties and provide a roadmap that can prevent disputes in the future.

Attitudes towards prenups also vary across generations and cultures. Younger couples, particularly those marrying later in life or with established careers and assets, are often more open to the idea. They recognise that prenups can acknowledge non-financial contributions such as childcare, homemaking, or career sacrifices. Blended families, too, find prenups valuable in balancing the needs of children from previous relationships with the interests of a new partner. Culturally, some families or communities still consider financial discussions taboo before marriage, while others view careful planning as responsible and necessary.

International relationships introduce further considerations. Couples with assets, property, or family ties in multiple countries must navigate differing laws and potential conflicts between jurisdictions. Prenups can provide clarity, protect interests, and ensure agreements are recognised abroad, making them an essential tool for cross-border couples.

Beyond legal and practical considerations, prenups have positive emotional impacts. Far from undermining love or commitment, they often strengthen relationships. Open discussions about finances and expectations foster trust, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. Couples frequently report that the process of creating a prenup improves communication, reduces anxiety about future uncertainties, and reassures both partners that contributions — whether financial or otherwise — are recognised and valued.

Despite these benefits, some couples still experience resistance. Conversations about prenups can feel uncomfortable or even pessimistic, and cultural or familial expectations may create additional pressure. The key is framing the prenup as a positive planning tool rather than a prediction of failure. Involving neutral, experienced legal advisers can guide couples through the process calmly, ensuring fairness while reducing emotional tension.

In recent years, prenups have become increasingly standard in legal and financial advice. Many financial planners now recommend them to clients with assets or complex family situations. Younger generations see prenups as part of relationship literacy, akin to budgeting or financial planning, rather than a sign of distrust or pessimism.

Looking ahead, attitudes toward prenups are likely to continue evolving. They are becoming a normalised part of relationship planning, particularly among professionals, blended families, and international couples. No longer are they perceived as a symbol of mistrust; they are recognised as practical, fair, and empowering tools that promote communication, clarity, and security.

In today’s context, the real question is no longer “Why would we have a prenup?” but rather “Why wouldn’t we?” When approached thoughtfully, a prenuptial agreement strengthens relationships, protects both parties, and provides peace of mind, making it an essential consideration for couples planning a shared future.

Why Should I Get a Prenup?

Posted on: September 23rd, 2025 by Alanah Lenten
Why should I get a Prenup? 

A prenuptial agreement allows couples to agree in advance how assets, property, and other financial matters will be handled if the relationship ends. While some attitudes towards prenups see them as unromantic or pessimistic, their real purpose is to provide clarity, fairness, and peace of mind. We explore why you would get a Prenup and when it is prudent to get one. 

A prenuptial agreement, far from being a sign of mistrust, can actually foster deeper trust between partners. By laying all assets, debts, and financial expectations openly on the table, both individuals gain a clear, honest understanding of each other’s circumstances. This transparency helps couples reach a unified position, making it easier to plan for the future together. Just as you wouldn’t buy a home without house insurance, a well-written prenup provides a framework that protects both parties, ensuring that everyone’s interests are respected. In this way, a prenup isn’t about expecting the worst, but about building a foundation of openness and mutual respect from the very beginning. 

In a marriage and civil partnership there are practical considerations that can affect the long-term health of a relationship — financial security being one of the most important.  Many, if not most people marry without any clear idea of what this means if the relationship comes to an end.

It often comes as a surprise when the nature and value of financial claims are explained, but by that time, there is little that can be done to mitigate these claims. 

Added to this is the notorious uncertainty involved in the current law, which is discretionary and depends on a Judge’s interpretation of the case. Very different outcomes can follow from what may appear to be similar facts.

Do I need a Prenup? 

These are the scenarios where it would be prudent to consider a Prenup. 

Protecting Pre-Owned Assets

Many people enter marriage or civil partnership with assets they have accumulated individually, such as:

  • A house or apartment
  • Savings or investments
  • Valuable personal property
  • Retirement funds

Example:

Emma owned a home outright before marrying James. The prenup ensured she retained her original home while fairly sharing jointly acquired assets.

 
Safeguarding Family Wealth and Inheritance

Prenups can specify:

  • Which inherited assets remain separate property
  • How future gifts or inheritances will be treated
  • Protection for trusts or family business interests

Example:

Robert inherited family business shares. The prenup kept the shares his personal property while allowing fair provision for his spouse.

 
Protecting Business Interests

Business ownership adds complexity. A prenup can prevent forced sale, clarify profit sharing, and protect employees or stakeholders.

Example:

Sophie owns a marketing firm. A prenup ensured she retained control while acknowledging her spouse’s financial or domestic contributions.

 

Managing International Circumstances

Prenups can address cross-border issues:

  • Legal jurisdiction
  • Recognition of assets overseas
  • Dispute resolution

Example:

Clara, a British citizen living in Germany, clarified which country’s laws would govern her prenup.

 

Career Sacrifices and Non-Financial Contributions

Prenups can recognise contributions such as childcare or homemaking.

Example:

Liam paused his career to care for children. The prenup secured his financial rights and acknowledged his contributions.

 

Mitigating Conflict and Providing Certainty

Prenups reduce future disputes by creating clear expectations for both partners.

Debunking Common Myths
  • Only for the wealthy: False – any couple with assets, debts, or family obligations can benefit
  • Unromantic: False – prenups are acts of care and foresight
  • Courts ignore them: False – Radmacher v Granatino confirmed courts give weight to fair prenups
  • Predicting divorce: False – they are about planning responsibly

 

The Process of Creating a Prenup
  1. Initial discussion
  2. Financial disclosure
  3. Independent legal advice
  4. Drafting the agreement
  5. Review and sign

Tip: Early preparation reduces pressure and emotional tension.

Conclusion

A prenup ensures fairness, protects assets, and reduces conflict. Couples often find it strengthens trust and communication.

Child Arrangements and Holidays: Planning Ahead for High Days and Holiday

Posted on: September 22nd, 2025 by Ella Darnell

High Days and Holidays (such as Christmas, Eid, Hanukkah) should be a time of joy and family connection, but for separated or divorced parents, it can bring stress and uncertainty. How do you decide who has the children over these religious periods, school holidays, or special occasions? What if you can’t agree?

It’s normal to feel anxious about balancing everyone’s wishes, keeping routines consistent, and ensuring children still enjoy the magic of the holidays. Planning early and having professional guidance can make a huge difference.

Agreeing Arrangements Between Parents

Ideally, parents can reach an agreement without needing court intervention. Some approaches include:

  • Alternating special days (i.e. Eid or Christmas Day) each year.
  • Splitting the holiday (for example, Christmas Eve and morning with one parent, Christmas afternoon and Boxing Day with the other).
  • Designating special times for each parent to maintain family traditions.

The key is open, child-focused communication. Ask:

  • “What traditions matter most to our children?”
  • “Which days are essential for grandparents or wider family?”
  • “How can we make sure both households feel included?”

Professional Guidance to Negotiate Arrangements

If parents find it difficult to agree, seeking professional assistance can help. Family lawyers can:

  • Facilitate negotiations between parents.
  • Draft proposed arrangements for discussion.
  • Offer guidance on what is realistic and in the child’s best interests.

This approach often prevents misunderstandings and reduces stress, while ensuring that agreements are legally informed and enforceable if necessary.

When Court Involvement is Necessary

If negotiations cannot resolve the dispute, parents may apply to the court for a Child Arrangements Order. The court always considers what is in the child’s best interests, using the welfare checklist under the Children Act 1989. This includes:

  • The child’s age, needs, and relationships with each parent.
  • The impact of changes to routines.
  • Each parent’s capacity to provide for the child.

In holiday cases, courts generally aim to ensure children have meaningful time with both parents. They may:

  • Split the holiday period between parents.
  • Alternate full holidays each year.
  • Make bespoke arrangements tailored to the family’s circumstances.

Courts rarely enforce rigid schedules unless necessary, preferring flexible arrangements that minimise conflict and disruption.

  • Start conversations early – Ideally months before holidays begin.
  • Document agreements – Even a simple written plan can prevent misunderstandings.
  • Consider fairness and consistency – Children benefit from predictable routines.
  • Be flexible – Small compromises (e.g., extra evening with one parent) help maintain peace.
  • Think beyond religious holidays – Apply the same principles to school holidays, birthdays, and special events.
  • Seek professional guidance – Family lawyers can negotiate arrangements, offer advice, and help formalise agreements.

Why it Matters

Resolving holiday arrangements constructively protects children from conflict and ensures they enjoy important family time. Early planning and professional guidance reduce stress, minimise court involvement, and give both parents clarity.

If you’re struggling to agree on holiday arrangements, our family law team can help. We provide professional guidance to negotiate and formalise child arrangements—helping you create fair, practical, and child-focused plans for high days, holidays and beyond.

Pets and Cohabitation: Protecting Your Furry Family

Posted on: September 17th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

For many couples, a dog, cat, or rabbit isn’t “just a pet”—they’re family. They bring love, comfort, and companionship. That’s why disputes over pets can become some of the most emotionally charged issues when a relationship breaks down.

But here’s the surprise: under English law, pets are treated as property, or “chattels.” Legally, your beloved orange tabby is treated the same way as a sofa or a car. That can feel out of step with how most of us view our animals, but it’s the current legal reality.

What the law says

When a couple separates, ownership of a pet usually follows legal documents such as:

  • Who purchased the pet and whose name is on the receipt.
  • Whose name is on the microchip or pedigree certificate.
  • Who pays vet bills and insurance.

Courts don’t make “contact orders” for pets in the way they do for children. This means there is no automatic right for one partner to see the pet if they are not the legal owner.

Recent Case Law  from FI v DO [2024]

The case of FI v DO [2024] highlighted just how complex and emotional pet disputes can be.
The Judge accepted the traditional legal position, that pets are property, but also considered the pet’s welfare and emotional bonds. In this case, the wife had been the dog’s sole carer for 18 months following separation.
The Judge ruled that the dog should remain with her, noting:

  • The dog had established a secure home with the wife.
  • Removing the dog would be distressing for both the animal and the children.
  • The wife had shown greater understanding of the dog’s needs and welfare.

This judgment demonstrates that while the law treats pets as property, courts are becoming more sensitive to the emotional role pets play in family life.

Common problems over pets after separation

Without a clear agreement, separating couples may face disputes about:

  • Who the pet will live with.
  • Responsibility for costs such as food, vet bills, and insurance.
  • Whether shared care is possible (e.g. weekdays with one partner, weekends with the other).
  • What happens if one partner wants to relocate abroad with the pet.

Such disagreements can strain not only the couple but also wider family members who are attached to the animal.

How Cohabitation Agreements Protect Pets

For unmarried couples, the best way to avoid pet disputes is to create a cohabitation agreement. This is a legally binding document tailored to your relationship and can cover:

  • Who owns the pet legally.
  • Who the pet will live with if you separate.
  • How costs such as food, insurance, and vet bills are divided.
  • Any shared arrangements for care, if appropriate.

Why a Cohabitation Agreement Matters

  • It reduces uncertainty and heartache during a stressful time.
  • It reflects your shared commitment to your pet’s welfare.
  • It helps avoid costly or unpredictable court disputes.

Importantly, cohabitation agreements don’t just cover pets. They can also set out:

  • Who owns the property you live in.
  • How bills and household expenses are divided.
  • Ownership of assets such as furniture or cars.

For unmarried couples, a cohabitation agreement offers clarity and security where the law otherwise provides little protection.

Protecting Your Pet and Your Peace of Mind

If you are living with a partner and you share a pet, it’s worth having a clear plan. Just as you wouldn’t buy a house together without clarifying ownership, you shouldn’t leave things vague with your furry family members.

Want to protect your pet and your peace of mind? Contact our family law team. We can draft a cohabitation agreement tailored to you—so you and your pet are secure, whatever the future holds.

Lawrence Stephens Appointed to Aspen Bridging’s Legal Panel

Posted on: September 15th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens is pleased to announce that we have been appointed to Aspen Bridging’s legal panel.

Aspen Bridging is a specialist lender known for delivering expert, fast, and dependable service. As a family-run business, Aspen is deeply committed to building long-term relationships and prides itself on being a reliable partner through every market condition.

Jack Coombs, Managing Director at Aspen, said: “We are very pleased to be working with Lawrence Stephens and are confident, especially when combined with our No Valuation product, that we are providing borrowers and brokers with not only a competitive offering, but one that can credibly be regarded as best-in-class.”

Ann Ebberson, Head of Real Estate Finance at Lawrence Stephens commented: “We are delighted to be appointed to the legal panel and to support Aspen deliver their services. Our team looks forward to working collaboratively to provide commercially focused, responsive legal solutions that support both lenders and borrowers. Whether it’s a refinance, purchase, or refurbishment, we are committed to ensuring a smooth and efficient experience for all parties involved.”

For more information on our Real Estate Finance and Banking solutions please click here.