A v B [2026] EWFC 206 (B)

Last week was a landmark moment in my legal career. This was one of the first Judgments published to The National Archives which I had worked on. This was a very difficult case, and the facts speak for themselves.

Throughout my two-and-a-half years working at Greens, I have learnt that not all client’s are the same and efficient and effective client care requires adaptation based on the client’s personal circumstances.

A four-day fact-finding hearing was heard on this matter with the Mother alleging that Father had engaged in controlling and coercive behaviour, repeated physical violence, sexual abuse and coercion, emotional abuse, and abusive behaviour towards the Mother’s non-subject children. Given the significant history of abuse that the Mother was subjected to, our team made sure that client care was a priority whilst also ensuring that robust legal advice and representation was in place throughout.

A special thanks to Laura Rowe of St John’s Chambers who represented our client in court from the outset of these proceedings. Laura’s professionalism, client care skills, and exceptional advocacy resulted in all findings being made in relation to the allegations made by the Mother.

The case recently concluded by way of Final Order which included no direct or indirect contact, a Prohibited Steps Order preventing the removal of the child from the Mother’s care, a Section 91(14) Order, a change of the child’s surname to that of the Mother’s maiden name and restriction of the Father’s Parental Responsibility.

The judgment from the fact-finding hearing has now been published on The National Archives: A v B – Find Case Law – The National Archives. This is a very interesting judgment from Mr Recorder O’Hagan and it shows a practical application of how family courts should approach domestic abuse, considering key case law and Practice Direction 12J.

Homepage – National Domestic Abuse Helpline

I need help – information and support on domestic abuse