Boris Johnson’s decision to prorogue Parliament could threaten the progress of two Bills anticipated by family law professionals – the Domestic Abuse Bill and the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill.
Prorogation would halt all Parliamentary business, with Bills yet to receive royal assent likely to fall away unless specifically carried over to the next Parliamentary session.
The Domestic Abuse Bill, which prohibits cross-examination in person in family proceedings in certain circumstances, was introduced to the Commons in July but has yet to have a second reading.
Family law professionals will also be keen to see if the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill can be enacted before parliament is shut down. This legislation would finally create a ‘no fault’ divorce in England and Wales – something many family law pratitioners have been working for for a very long time, and believe will make a huge positive difference in the lives of many. The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill is currently at report stage.