News and views

Whether the loss of a serious relationship comes as a complete shock, or the writing has been incandescently on the wall for some time, there’s no colour-by-numbers approach to dealing with the inevitable subsequent practicalities.

The figures may vary from country to country, but international research invariably reveals women – particularly mothers – suffer enduring financial hardship post-separation.

It’s an oft-quoted figure bandied about when it comes to marriage break-ups: half of us who make it to the altar will divorce. Ah, but nay, say our national number crunchers; that’s actually quite the urban myth.

The feedback’s continuing to roll in around our family law specialist, Gillian Stuart, and her series of interesting legal facts that’s been running in The Messenger. Earlier in the year, Off the Record ran Gillian’s first 10 facts. And now, by popular demand, we’re delighted to bring you Numbers 11 to 15.

All legal eyes are glued to a landmark case that’s set down to be heard in the Supreme Court early next month – and its significance is such that anyone with a trust would do well to take a keen interest in, too.