Sorting out finances tends to be the most complex part of unravelling a marriage or civil partnership and is often the most acrimonious.


Surviving Divorce Financially

Unfortunately, there is no right or wrong answer to the big question: “what am I entitled to?”

You can, of course, agree to a settlement between you without involving lawyers or the Courts, but be careful. Divorce law is full of traps for the unwary. Timely specialist legal advice can save you thousands of pounds in the long run.

The starting point to discussions is to collect together all financial information, including important evidence such as each spouse’s, or civil partners, earning and mortgage capacity and the cost of re-housing.

Whilst in a divorce the Court’s overriding objective must be to be fair to both sides. If there are any minor and dependent children then their needs for secure accommodation will be paramount, even if this means being unfair to the other parent. When there are enough money and assets to go round then equality is often the fairest outcome.

Each case is different and all the relevant factors will be taken into account such as the ages and health of each party, children, length of marriage, respective contributions, earning capacity, pensions, inheritances etc.

It should be borne in mind that pensions are often the parties largest asset and this becomes more relevant the older the couple and the longer the marriage or partnership.

Most couples manage eventually to reach an agreement with the help of their lawyers and the judge only has to confirm his agreement for it to be legally binding.

Sometimes it is necessary for a formal application for a financial settlement to be made to the Court if only to obtain full financial disclosure from the other spouse which is vital before any meaningful negotiations can start. The Court then progresses the case by giving “directions” at the first hearing.

At the second hearing, a judge will try to help the couple to reach an agreement often indicating his view of a reasonable potential outcome. If all else fails, the judge will impose his decision on the couple at the final hearing.

Resolving financial disputes is often complicated and it really is essential that you consult a specialist lawyer.

Get in touch


We can help you with all aspects of family law from children’s issues, financial issues, divorce and separation to pre-nuptial agreements.

01522 516 500
enquiries@dianegenders.co.uk