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Duncan Lewis’ family law team investigates forced marriage and the protections offered by the courts in the latest episode of the Navigating Family Law podcast.

In Exploring Forced Marriages Within the Family Courts - A Hidden Crime our team delves into the critical issue of this hidden crime, discussing its definition and the support available in the UK.

They explore what a Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO) is, how it can be obtained, the criteria courts consider when granting one and the serious consequences of breaching such an order.

Director Krina Parmar, solicitors Natasha Patel and Bhavini Joshi are joined by special guest Katie Williams-Howes, a Family and Childcare Barrister from 3DJB with extensive experience in Children Law and the Court of Protection.

In this episode:

The team discusses what a Forced Marriage Protection Order (FMPO) is, how it can be obtained, the criteria courts consider when granting one and the serious consequences of breaching such an order.

Our team also delve into important topics such as funding for such cases and the availability of legal aid and examine two forced marriage cases they have represented, providing practical insights into the application of these legal protections.

Special guest Katie Williams-Howes, of 3DJB, has extensive experience in Children Law and the Court of Protection. Katie frequently handles cases involving Forced Marriage Protection Orders, Female Genital Mutilation Protection Orders and more

Listen to Navigating Family Law Episode 4:  Exploring Forced Marriages Within the Family Courts - A Hidden Crime

You can also catch up with season 1 so far:

Episode 3: In this episode, Untangling Assets, Divorce and Finance, the team untangle the complexities of family finances during divorce proceedings.

Episode 2: Breaking the Silence: Understanding Domestic Violence delves into the critical issue of domestic violence within the context of family law, featuring a compelling interview with Sue Burke, Chief Executive of MK Act, which is dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic abuse.

Episode 1: The first episode, Split Decisions: Understanding Finances and Mediation during Divorce, sets the stage for what listeners can expect from the series.  Our expert family law team tackles the often daunting financial aspects of divorce, shedding light on the benefits of mediation and offering invaluable insights on how individuals can navigate this challenging terrain with confidence and clarity.

About the Hosts

Krina Parmar is a Director of Family and Child Care Law at Duncan Lewis Solicitors, having joined the firm in 2013. Krina specialises in both private and public law children matters, with significant experience in international child abduction matters, forced marriage applications, female genital mutilation (FGM) applications and emergency matters such as removal of children and domestic abuse.

Contact Krina Parmar via email at KrinaP@duncanlewis.com or by telephone at 02072752553.

Natasha Patel is a Solicitor in the Family and Child Care department at Duncan Lewis Solicitors based in the firm's Luton office. Natasha’s area of expertise includes representing parents whose children have been removed from their care due to concerns of substance abuse, domestic abuse, poor home conditions and poor mental health.

Contact Natasha Patel via email at NatashaP@duncanlewis.com or by telephone at 02079238531.

Bhavini Joshi is a Solicitor in the Child Care department based at the Luton branch of Duncan Lewis Solicitors. Bhavini has extensive experience in assisting, advising and representing parents within care proceedings, particularly on matters relating to mental health concerns, non-accidental injuries, substance misuse, poor home conditions and domestic abuse.

Contact Bhavini Joshi via email at BhaviniJ@duncanlewis.com or by telephone at 02072752666.

Duncan Lewis Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Solicitors' family law team is renowned for its outstanding legal services, and is ranked top tier by The Legal 500 2024 guide, which highlights its dedication to client service. The team covers a wide range of family law areas, including complex international child abduction, special guardianship orders, wardship, surrogacy, adoption, and public law children cases. They're also skilled in handling high-value divorces and cohabitation agreements.

If you need legal advice, support or assistance please call our team on 033 3772 0409.