Family - the Virtual Summer Series 2026

Whether it's drafting pre-nup or post-nup agreements, deciding when ADR may be appropriate, trying to navigate unreasonable clients or understanding the impact of technology and social media, the role of the family lawyer is multi-faceted.

Chaired by Marika Franceschi of Franceschi Family Law, our new online conference will include contributions from Jacqueline Stroud from Brodies, Alex Critchley of Westwater Advocates, Jane Heppenstall, Brittany Thomas from Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie and Roisin Cooper of BTO.

What's being covered?

"To have and to hold …." (just in case it turns cold) 

A practical guide to pre and post nuptial contracts in Scotland - pitfalls to look out for and discussion around style and content.

Marika Franceschi, Franceschi Family Law

Misconceptions about alternative dispute resolution; when is it appropriate to mediate, collaborate or arbitrate?

Jacqueline will cover the two main types of alternative dispute resolution commonly used in Scotland and consider when ADR is appropriate.  Whether ADR can be used when there is a power imbalance or allegations of abuse will be considered as well as the positive benefits of ADR for participants and their children.

Jacqueline Stroud, Brodies

When clients won’t listen - navigating the unreasonable client in family law

Family law practitioners will inevitably encounter clients whose expectations, behaviour or instructions test professional and ethical boundaries.  This talk explores how to identify and manage unreasonable conduct, maintaining control of the case, all whilst protecting both your client’s interests, as well as your own position. 

Brittany Thomas, Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie

Family case law update

In this session, Alex will discuss some important cases recently decided, consider the potential impact of the decisions taken in these cases and provide any relevant pointers for practitioners.

Alex Critchley, Westwater Advocates

Occupancy rights when relationships breakdown

In this session we will consider who is entitled to remain in the matrimonial or family home and what options exist for resolving any difficulties.

Jane Heppenstall

Impact of technology and social media on family law

This session will focus on several areas of family law to discuss the impact of technology and social media. Social media has become an integral part of the majority of our client’s lives. It can affect how separating couples communicate with one another, the value of their matrimonial property and what evidence they may be able to produce in a family law context. Roisin will discuss what family law practitioners can be aware of in terms of social media and technology and what advice they could be considering for their clients. 

Roisin Cooper, BTO