Legal Insight & Industry Updates

Life, business and the law

The law never stands still, and the way it applies to you and your organisation is constantly evolving. Our people are on top of these developments and can keep you up to date with some of the most interestings aspects of these changes. Check out our articles and updates for our perspective on issues that might affect you.

Latest articles from Amanda Masson

Brexit "divorce negotiations" and family law – choosing the most appropriate way forward

By Amanda Masson 23 Nov 2018

Whilst I am sure most of the nation probably shares my sense of "Brexit fatigue", one aspect of the current debate has parallels with the process clients face upon separation with a view to divorce. Sometimes clients of the family law team know that the separation is something that needs to happen, whether they wished it to happen or not, but there is little or no guidance available to them to enable informed choices to be made.
Surrogacy for same sex couples widening the scope of Family Law

By Amanda Masson 10 Jul 2018

Congratulations to Tom Daley and his husband, Dustan Lance Black on the birth of their son, Robert Ray. Robert Ray was born on 27 June, via a surrogate. The news of the birth prompted us here on the family law team to think about how notions of parenthood are changing, with assisted reproduction methods widening the scope of family law.
Parenthood dispute following assisted conception highlights the legal pitfalls around modern fertility

By Amanda Masson 14 May 2018

A recent decision at Edinburgh Sheriff Court considers issues about legal parenthood which will become more common as alternative family structures evolve. The case involved twins who were born via artificial insemination, whose mother asked the court to declare that her ex-partner was not a legal parent.
Dealing with claims by cohabitants on death – rights are not the same as for married couples in Scots law

By Amanda Masson 24 Apr 2018

Under Scottish law, cohabitants are not on the same footing as married couples are on the death of their partner. This legislation has given rise to legally complex and emotionally difficult cases which are unpredictable and impossible to quantify in terms of value. One recent case which reached courts highlighted the difficulties this situation can cause for grieving partners.
Practical tips for self care throughout separation and divorce

By Amanda Masson 19 Jan 2018

Divorce is generally recognised as being one of the most stressful life events someone can experience. The Family team at Harper Macleod have many years of experience in supporting clients to deal with the legal aspects of separation and family law issues generally, and offer a few practical tips to help you to support yourself during the process.