A thought provoking article about the importance of the language used within family law, and how it can create unhelpful adversarial tones. The written press and drama writers hardly ever get it right when dealing with divorce and family breakdown. I am sure I am not alone in shouting at the TV when they get it so horribly wrong. 

This piece reminds us of two things. Firstly, our professional vocabulary needs an overhaul. Secondly, our own language needs to be carefully considered so as not to have deleterious effect in real life. We need to educate our clients and the public at large (and yes in too many cases some old-school family lawyers), as to the lasting harm that the use of aggressive and adversarial language can have on our clients and their families. Simple changes could make a very big difference, and all steps in that direction are to be welcomed.