News Essentials: 23rd February 2020

A brief summary of the essential family law news and cases from the last week:

W, F, C and D (minors) (Name changes disclosing gender reassignment and other matters) (Rev 1) [2020] EWHC 279 (QB)
Judgment on the potential impact on children changing their forenames by deed poll due to gender reassignment, specifically related to the requirements of exam boards proof of name. Full report: Family Law Week.

F v H (Fact-Finding) [2019] EWFC B80 {08 August 2019)
The Tolson judgment referred to in JH v MF. Full report: Bailii.

Haskell v Haskell [2020] EWFC 9 (13 February 2020)
Judgment on the wife's claim for financial remedies. Mostyn: "The clear view I have formed is that the husband is exceedingly astute commercially who is presently forging a change of direction in his business activities. A snapshot at the present time would not be a realistic way of looking at his resources." Full report: Bailii.

Katrina O'Hara murder: Coroner recommends phone access changes
A coroner has called for domestic abuse victims to have access to mobile phones after police seized a woman's device days before her murder. Full story: BBC News.

Digital form quicker and easier for separated parents applying to see children
It will be quicker and easier for separated parents to apply to see their children thanks to a new online service launched by HM Courts and Tribunals Service. Full story: Ministry of Justice.

Family courts not safe for domestic violence victims, lawyers say
Letter signed by 130 legal professionals raises concerns over judges’ ‘outdated views’.  Full story: The Guardian.

Peers alarmed at Henry VIII powers in divorce bill
The House of Lords has urged the government to chop elements of the divorce bill that would enable the lord chancellor to radically alter the reforms without parliamentary scrutiny. Full story: Law Society Gazette.

Study suggests mortality from all causes over 40% higher in female domestic abuse survivors
Women who have experienced domestic abuse appear to be more than 40 per cent more likely to die from any cause compared to the general population, a study led by the Universities of Warwick and Birmingham suggests. Full story: Care Appointments.