Southern Family Law Conference delivers another standout event
25 June 2025
This year's Southern Family Law Conference, which took place on Thursday 19 June at The Guildford Pavilion, was our second sell-out conference. With themes from across family law focused on ‘Hot Topics and Future Trends’, we were proud to assemble some of the brightest minds in Family Law for an inspiring day.
Edward Cooke and Grace Parker-White hosted the event. Grace said she was delighted to co-host the conference following the opening of the firm's Farnham office in January.
An exceptional panel of speakers covered topics from across a wide of range of specialisms in family law as follows:
- Financial Remedy Matters – Nicholas Allen KC, Christopher Butterfield and James Cooper
- Children Matters & Modern Families – Richard Jones KC, Melissa Elsworth
- Family Law and Neurodiversity – Kelly Pougher
- Displaced Grief in the Divorce Process – Annmarie Carvalho, The Carvalho Consultancy
- The English court's approach to European Marital property agreements and Part III - Rebecca Carew Pole KC, Lily Mottahedan
Each of the speakers shared valuable insights on key developments and emerging hot topics within their area of law. Their contributions provided vital training and practical knowledge for over 120 delegates in attendance, all of whom were eager to enhance their skills and stay up to date with industry changes, to continue to deliver the highest standard of service to their clients.
A lively debate that shifted momentum from one side to the other
The afternoon debate explored the motion: "This House believes that the reference to undue hardship as the test for bringing spousal maintenance to an end needs reform in view of our societal understanding of the long-term impacts of domestic abuse and other welfare considerations.". With James Cooper (29 Bedford Row) and Claire Blakemore (Withers) speaking for the motion, and Lily Mottahedan (1 Hare Court) and Rachel Donald (Russell Cooke) against, the debate was Chaired by Nicholas Allen, KC of 29 Bedford Row Chambers.
Live polling of all delegates before the event showed 75% for prior to the debate, 20% against, with 5% abstaining. However, after a lively debate there was a shift in momentum against the motion, with 61% voting against and 39% for at the end of the debate.
After the debate, delegates enjoyed Pimms and nibbles at the networking reception outside, shared reflections on the day and enjoyed catching up in a delightful setting.
Supporting Challengers: Guildford and Farnham's Children's Charity
One of the highlights of the day was hearing from Chris McIsaac from local Farnham and Guildford children's charity, Challengers.
Challengers is a remarkable charity that transforms the lives of disabled children, young people, and their families through the simple yet powerful act of play. Chris spoke openly and movingly about the significant challenges faced by disabled children and their families, highlighting the stark reality of an 87% divorce rate among parents of disabled children. His message underscored the vital role that play and respite services provide — offering not only joy and social connection for children, but also essential relief and support for families navigating extraordinary pressures.
Social isolation is an epidemic among the UK’s disabled children and their families. While their non-disabled peers have a choice of clubs, hobbies and playdates, many disabled children only have home and school. This lack of social interaction and opportunities means they are missing out on important life experiences, and is having a detrimental to their mental health, and the wellbeing of their families.
We were so pleased to be able to support Challengers as our chosen Charity Partner for this second conference, and will be donating all proceeds from the event to the charity to support their vital work. Thank you too to those who donated to the Charity on the day.
Edward Cooke commented on the day
“It was a thrill to see an even larger crowd gather for our second conference last week. It was a brilliant day and we have been bowled over by the positive comments we have received.
The content clearly resonated, thanks to our line-up of expert speakers who shared insights on some of the most pressing topics in family law. Their knowledge provided practical takeaways for us all, helping to shape and strengthen our day-to-day practice.
We are exceptionally proud that one of the unique features of this event is its charitable impact. This year, all profits are being donated to Challengers, a local charity that transforms the lives of disabled children and their families through the power of play. Thanks to both the event profits and the generous donations from delegates on the day, we’re thrilled that we can help support this incredible work and make a difference to local children and their families.
It was a memorable and meaningful day — bringing together a diverse group of practitioners, fostering new ideas, and reinforcing our shared commitment to achieving the best outcomes for families.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the event, including all of the speakers, delegates and sponsors.”
Some initial feedback from delegates
"Thank you Edward Cooke & the team Edward Cooke Family Law for an inspiring and brilliantly organised Southern Family Law Conference at the The Guildford Pavilion yesterday. Lots of thought provoking discussions and interesting debates."
Melanie Bataillard-Samuel. Family Law Solicitor, MBS Family Law
"What a fantastic day at Edward Cooke ‘s second Southern Family Law Conference - now a firm fixture in the family law calendar. The speakers were absolutely engaging and the very topical debate expertly chaired by Nicholas Allen KC rounded off a brilliant occasion."
Karin Walker MCIArb. Founder, KGW Family Law
"Thank you for hosting - really thoughtful topics including taking a holistic approach to family law, interesting discussions/debates and engaging speakers throughout the day."
Nisha Tayal. Partner, MacDonald Oates LLP
"Thank you for organising such a great Southern Family Law Conference. We really enjoyed our day, listening to all the engaging speakers on such a variety of topics."
Emma Rothstein. Partner, Pearson Hards LLP
"Brilliant day at the Southern Family Law conference hosted by Edward Cooke and Grace Parker-White. Brilliant talks from all the speakers."
Hannah Field. Partner, Russell-Cooke Solicitors
