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In this episode, Natasha Slabas (Family Law Partner in London) and Samantha Jago (Family Law Partner in Guildford) sit down with James Evans, Head of Professional Education at Our Family Wizard (OFW), to explore how the platform is transforming communication in family law proceedings. Whether used before, during or after court involvement, the app offers a structured and secure space for separated parents to manage co-parenting more effectively.
What is Our Family Wizard?
James explains that Our Family Wizard app is a communication and organisational tool designed specifically for separated or divorcing parents. Available as an app and web-based platform, it allows users to message each other, share calendars, make schedule change requests, upload documents and images, log expenses, and even hold video calls (with consent). Every interaction is securely time-stamped and cannot be altered or deleted, making it admissible in court. Legal professionals can also be granted limited access to monitor communication, helping to streamline proceedings and reduce conflict.
Having recommended OFW for over a decade, Samantha shares how valuable the tool has been in her own practice. She highlights the “ToneMeter” feature as particularly useful. It gives live feedback on the tone of written messages, helping parents reflect and potentially reframe aggressive or emotionally charged language. There’s also an upgraded version of this feature powered by OFW’s own closed AI system, which can suggest more appropriate wording.
Why parents and couples should use the app?
A common question is: why use OFW instead of something free like WhatsApp? James notes that while WhatsApp may be convenient, it lacks transparency since messages can be deleted or edited, and conversations can easily spiral. OFW, by contrast, promotes accountability. Its secure record-keeping allows both parents and the courts to see exactly what has been said and when. Rather than relying on screenshots or disputed messages, a full, indisputable communication log can be downloaded when needed.
The platform originated in Minnesota in 2001 and launched in the UK in 2018. It has evolved significantly since then, with regular updates driven by user feedback. While some families begin using it by court order, many parents voluntarily adopt it for the structure and peace of mind it brings, especially in high-conflict scenarios. That said, OFW is just as helpful for co-parents who get along well, offering a centralised space to manage their parenting schedules and responsibilities.
The podcast also touches on potential concerns, such as a parent refusing to use the app. If OFW is court-ordered and one party fails to engage, this is logged and visible to the other party and professionals involved. In cases of faked or manipulated communications, which are sadly not uncommon, James emphasises that OFW offers greater security than alternatives. Fake WhatsApp messages are increasingly found in proceedings, whereas OFW’s system is tamper-proof, GDPR-compliant, and developed with safeguarding and integrity in mind.
Although OFW is a paid service, a fee waiver system is available for those who need financial assistance, ensuring the platform remains accessible.
