Blandy & Blandy’s leading Family Law team has achieved a further notable success following the publication of the follow-up judgment on costs in the complex reported case of FAZ v MAZ & Anor.
The firm previously advised the father in the substantive judgment handed down earlier this year (FAZ v MAZ (Private Law: Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Child) [2026] EWFC 131), presided over by The Honourable Mr Justice Poole. The case concerned allegations of sexual abuse made within private law children proceedings. Following a fact-finding hearing, the Court found that the allegations against the father had not been proven.
In the initial ruling, Elizabeth Owen, an associate in the firm’s specialist Family Law team, working alongside Janet Bazley KC and Lucy Sprinz of 1GC Family Law, successfully represented the father in proceedings, paving the way for work to begin on restoring vital family relationships.
In the subsequent costs judgment ([2026] EWFC 301), handed down on 19 October 2026, the Court considered the mother's conduct in relation to the allegations and whether her conduct justified a departure from the usual approach that each party bears their own costs in private law children proceedings. Mr Justice Poole concluded that aspects of the mother's conduct had been unreasonable and ordered her to contribute towards the father's costs.
The judgment provides further guidance on the principles governing costs orders in private law children cases, particularly where allegations of abuse are advanced and pursued in circumstances that the Court considers have contributed to unnecessary litigation.
Recognised as a top-tier firm for Family Law in both Chambers UK Guide and The Legal 500, Blandy & Blandy’s specialist team offers expert advice across all areas of Family Law.
For further information or legal advice, please contact law@blandy.co.uk or call 0118 951 6800.
