Marcus Julius International Research Institute for Family and Children Law

05/21/2026

Two landmark surrogacy-related judgments this year – one a trusts case involving the Longleat Estate, the other a welfare benefits tribunal – highlight how current legislation is struggling to accommodate modern family arrangements within older legal frameworks. While neither case involved the family court, where applications for parental orders following a surrogacy arrangement are considered, they demonstrate the reach of surrogacy law and the consequent need for widespread reform.

Why reform of surrogacy law cannot wait | Law Gazette

Family law.

05/09/2026

https://fenechlaw.com/insights/the-future-of-the-maltese-family-court/

Following the launch of a Public Consultation on the Family Courts reform back in November 2024, the Government has now defined its future direction on the said Reform. According to announcements in several news portals on the 2nd February 2026, the Family Court will no longer form part of the Civil Courts, but will instead operate as an autonomous Court, housed in a building separate from the existing courts.

The Reform will be addressing co-parenting arrangements, the issue of mainupuation of children, delays in proceedings and failure to pay child maintenance. The scope being to create a more efficient system for all parties concerned, giving paramount consideration to the children’s wellbeing and security.

Following the launch of a Public Consultation on the Family Courts reform back in November 2024, the Government has now defined its future direction on the said Reform.

04/21/2026

One of the hardest adjustments for children after divorce is learning to live with one parent instead of both parents at the same time. Children are resilient, but they also feel these changes deeply, and Illinois parents should be sensitive to children’s emotional needs during this transition. For many children, it is beneficial for them when parents share child custody 50-50 instead of one parent having primary custody.

Children often struggle after divorce as they adjust to living with one parent, navigating emotional changes, routines, the need for stability and support.

04/09/2026

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/apr/01/japan-allows-divorced-couples-to-negotiate-joint-custody-of-children-for-first-time

The new rules are the first major change to the country’s laws governing child-rearing in more than a century

03/17/2026

Divorce and separation is an emotionally taxing experience that can take a heavy toll on individuals and families. While the entire divorce process can be difficult, the period of separation – the time between deciding to end a marriage and the formal legal resolution – often proves to be the most stressful and dangerous. This transitional period is filled with uncertainty, heightened emotions, and logistical challenges that can make an already difficult situation even worse. In many cases, it is during this period that individuals face emotional, financial, and even physical risks.

The period of separation in divorce can be the most stressful and dangerous time. Learn how emotional, financial, and safety risks impact individuals, especially regarding domestic violence, during this phase and what steps to take to protect yourself.

03/02/2026

Psychological preparation for parenting is sometimes a very small part of the course or home study and yet is so important. It is necessary to explore how you might cope with the emotions post placement and then post adoption. What are your expectations of yourself, your partner, your family and friends? Will the supports be there for you when you need them? What role will the birth parents or social workers play?

Psychological preparation for parenting is so important. Here Lynda Graham is a Counsellor specialising in Post Adoption support and training explains why.

02/11/2026

A separation or divorce is a highly stressful and emotional experience for everyone involved, but children often feel that their whole world has turned upside down. At any age, it can be traumatic to witness the dissolution of your parents’ marriage and the breakup of the family. Kids may feel shocked, uncertain, or angry. Some may even feel guilty, blaming themselves for the problems at home. Divorce is never a seamless process and, inevitably, such a transitional time doesn’t happen without some measure of grief and hardship. But you can dramatically reduce your children’s pain by making their well-being your top priority.

Divorce can be especially tough on kids. But there's plenty you can do to help them cope.

02/04/2026

It's one thing to say you'd do anything for your kids, but co-parenting after a separation demands a different kind of bravery: facing your ex.

01/21/2026

Starting a family can be a wonderful and emotional time for any family, but when parents have experienced fertility issues and their journey to parenthood has been longer and more difficult, this can leave people feeling sensitive and fragile.

When it Matters Most.

01/06/2026

In recognition of International Child-Centered Divorce Month some of the top divorce experts in the world are providing free gifts, advice and coaching services on a broad range of topics related to divorce and parenting. If you are a parent facing separation or divorce – if you are moving through the process – or if you’re working on successful parenting following a divorce, this is vital information you won’t want to miss.

January is International Child-Centered Divorce Month where parents can access advice through free teleseminars, ebooks and more for their child's well-being.