Emily Brand

What makes a Private Financial Dispute Resolution (PFDR) hearing such an effective and flexible way to settle financial matters? Family Senior Associate, Alexandra Hirst, explains PFDR and outlines how preparation, clear communication and a tailored approach can help clients navigate the process confidently without proceeding to a final court hearing.

What does the Supreme Court’s ruling in Standish v Standish mean for tax planning and the treatment of inter-spousal transfers? In STEP Journal, Partner and Head of Family, Emily Brand, analyses how the judgment confirms that assets transferred between spouses for tax efficiency are unlikely to be treated as matrimonial property. The decision offers reassurance to both family and tax practitioners and emphasises the importance of maintaining clear documentation to protect non-matrimonial assets.

Family businesses face unique challenges when dealing with divorce. Family Partner and Mediator, Katie O’Callaghan will offer her insights at the Family Business Disputes Forum 2025. She will be joined by Frederick Tatham, Paul Hardman and Camilla Baldwin to discuss strategies to safeguard businesses, navigate divorce without disruption and share practical lessons from real-life cases.

Back in June, we celebrated the launch of the STEP Business Families and Family Businesses Handbook with a distinguished panel of advisers and family business experts. The evening explored the evolving challenges of advising family businesses, from succession planning and governance to the human and interpersonal dynamics that shape long-term success.