Dr Charlotte Proudman and Proudmans are representing the mother in a landmark appeal before the European Court of Human Rights

Dr Charlotte Proudman and Proudmans are representing the mother in a landmark appeal now before the European Court of Human Rights, an exceptionally rare step for a family-law matter and one that carries profound implications for survivors across the UK.

A court ruled that a six-year-old girl must keep the surname of the man who raped her mother, despite proven abuse, long-standing protective orders, and the father having had no contact since 2021. This judgment prioritised “paternal heritage” over safety, welfare, and the lived reality of violence. It has raised urgent concerns about how the family courts respond to abuse and whether survivors can trust the system meant to protect them.

The case now moves to Strasbourg, where the issues will be examined under the highest standards of human-rights scrutiny. With Dr Proudman acting as counsel, Proudmans is advancing this challenge alongside Good Law Project and Leigh Day, bringing the voices and experiences of survivors to an international forum.

At Proudmans, we are committed to confronting harmful judgments, strengthening protections for women and children, and shaping the future of family justice. Our work continues: in courtrooms, in policy spaces, and now before the European Court of Human Rights.