As society continues to evolve, so too does the legal framework that governs family life in the UK. In 2025, family law is undergoing important developments shaped by shifting social norms, digital innovation, and increasing pressure on courts to modernise. From the growing use of technology in family proceedings to the recognition of diverse family structures, the legal system is gradually adapting to better reflect the realities faced by individuals and families today.
Below we explore the key changes and trends emerging in UK family law this year, with a focus on practical impacts and legal clarity for those navigating complex personal matters.
Embracing Digital Courts and Remote Hearings
The move toward digitisation continues in 2025, following accelerated progress made during the COVID-19 pandemic. Remote hearings are now more frequently used in family court proceedings, especially for case management and procedural hearings. While full trials involving vulnerable parties or complex evidence often remain in-person, hybrid models are increasingly common.
This development has improved access to justice in some respects—particularly for individuals who struggle with mobility or childcare responsibilities. However, concerns remain about digital exclusion, with some litigants in person (LiPs) lacking the skills or resources to participate fully in online proceedings. The courts are under pressure to balance efficiency with fairness, and training programmes for LiPs are being discussed to close the digital gap.
Transparency and Accountability in the Family Courts
Calls for greater transparency in the family justice system have led to a pilot scheme allowing accredited journalists and legal bloggers to report on family court cases, subject to strict reporting restrictions that protect the anonymity of children and vulnerable adults.
This transparency pilot, extended to more courts in 2025, aims to increase public confidence in the system while maintaining privacy. Practitioners are now required to prepare anonymised judgments for publication more routinely, helping to build a clearer public record of family law decisions.
No-Fault Divorce and Its Ongoing Effects
Although the no-fault divorce regime introduced by the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 came into force in 2022, its effects are still unfolding in 2025. The simplified application process has contributed to a rise in self-represented litigants and a shift away from adversarial proceedings.
Importantly, the family courts have observed a trend of fewer disputes being escalated unnecessarily, with more separating couples resolving issues amicably through mediation or collaborative law. This cultural change is viewed as a positive step toward reducing the emotional toll of divorce on families and children.
Recognition of Diverse Family Structures
UK family law continues to adjust to accommodate diverse parenting and relationship models. In 2025, further attention is being given to the legal rights of non-biological parents, particularly in cases involving same-sex couples, step-parents, and those using assisted reproduction or surrogacy.
Recent case law suggests a more inclusive approach to parental responsibility, with courts increasingly recognising the role of “psychological parents”—those who have taken on the day-to-day responsibilities of parenting, even without formal legal status. Proposals for reform of parental responsibility laws are under review, with advocacy groups calling for more streamlined legal pathways for intended parents in surrogacy arrangements.
Increased Emphasis on Children’s Voices
The family courts are placing more emphasis on the views and welfare of children in private law disputes. Updated guidance from the Family Justice Council in 2025 encourages judges to ensure that children’s voices are heard in proceedings that affect them, particularly in cases involving residence or contact arrangements.
There is growing use of child-inclusive mediation and specialist reports from Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service), aiming to ensure that children’s best interests are not only represented, but actively heard. This reflects a wider shift toward child-centric approaches across all aspects of family law.
Conclusion
Family law in 2025 is moving in a direction that better reflects contemporary life. Through digital modernisation, inclusive legal interpretations, and reforms focused on fairness and clarity, the system is adapting to meet new challenges. While some reforms remain in pilot stages or under consultation, it’s clear that UK family law is entering a period of steady, responsive evolution—one that is increasingly informed by the people and families it serves.
Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
