Latest Watford Blogs from the Watford Observer

I am a solicitor specialising in all aspects of family law. I am regularly contacted for advice about marriage, divorce, children, pre nups, gay and lesbian parenting etc. I want to use this blog to dispel myths about family law and comment on reports in the press that may concern readers. I will also be responding to your questions so do blog for general advice! In my spare time I will be acting as Partner at www.bestsolicitorsllp.co.uk.

To smack or not to smack?

David Lammy's comments on permitting 'mild smacking' spark further debate.

Parenting after parting

Children should not be used as pawns

New Year Resolution

You are your own life manager. Get a plan.

Two mommies and a dad

Alternative family joy

Dear dowry

I was recently contacted by BBC Asian Network for comments regarding the practice of paying a dowry.

‘Facebook’ divorce is on the increase

If there is a gap in the marriage ‘Facebook’ will fill it.

Gay surrogacy / Alternative families

Gay marriages, surrogacy, IVF babies, gay adoption and gay parenting are all put under the umbrella of ‘alternative families’ because they are unusual.

Surrogacy - Can the surrogate mother keep our baby?

The surrogate mother doesn't have to give you the baby. The fact that you have spent hundreds or even thousands on making her pregnancy as comfortable as possible is irrelevant.

Wendi Deng's fabulous right hook

Wendi Deng’s instinctive reaction to the atrocious and indefensible attack on Rupert Murdoch was met with applause in our office. Whatever the protestor’s intentions, the incident only served to shift the mood slightly in favour of the Murdochs, distracting from the scandal. Best regards Harjit Sarang

Should I get married?

Thank you for your question. You have been living with your partner for 13 years and have 3 children. Marriage has never been an issue because neither of you are religious. You are independent and individually wealthy which is one of the reasons why the relationship works so well. The children are aged 5,3 and 10 months. You want to know where you stand should the relationship break down and stress to me that getting married for financial reasons goes against all of your principles as an independent woman. (I hear you!)