Family law glossary - M

Maintenance

A sum of money awarded by the Court to be paid by one spouse to another upon divorce. Also known as ‘periodical payments’.

Maintenance pending suit

A temporary order for maintenance made within divorce proceedings until Decree Absolute is granted.

Matrimonial home

The house in which a husband and wife live together as a married couple.

Mediation

A process of resolving disputes between parties with the assistance of an independent third party (mediator). The aim is to assist the parties in finding a mutually acceptable resolution. If mediation is unsuccessful, Court proceedings can be initiated.

Mortgage

A loan of money advanced to purchase a property. The mortgage is security for the loan that a lender makes to the borrower.

loading staff

4.7out of 10

Trustpilot logo4.7 score on Trustpilot Based on count 754

We're Great

It is our business to deliver legal services that work for our clients, and you can trust our specialists to take care of things on your behalf.

Our Trustpilot reviews

Which court order is appropriate for my family/child dispute?

When couples separate it can be a very stressful time particularly where children are involved. Ideally parents should make decisions between themselves as to what is best for the child after separation. Mediation is a process where parents can be assisted...

Twitter block 1 tweet

SolicitorsLLP

Stephensons appoints new family law solicitor

The national law firm, Stephensons, has appointed a new solicitor in its family law department as the firm continues to experience growing demand for its specialist family law services. Rachel Benett joins Stephensons’ Manchester office...

Family reorder

Victoria Gethin
Karen Atkins
Gwyneth John
Andrew Mountain
Amanda Rimmer
Lauren Day
Tim Galbraith
Kath Geere
Jackie Price
Rachel Benett
Nicola Clayton
Catherine Gaskell
Emma Roberts
Laura Simmons
Bethany Corday
Lauren Evans
Hanna Fayle
Jade Bastien
Gemma Wilson
Hannah Mallin
Claire Pilling