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Divorce & finances

Divorce and finances are often closely intertwined, making it essential to have expert legal guidance to ensure a fair and secure outcome. At Stephensons, our experienced divorce solicitors specialise in managing the financial aspects of divorce, from dividing assets and pensions to handling complex settlements. We offer personalised advice tailored to your unique circumstances, ensuring your financial future is protected. Whether through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.

If your marriage or civil partnership has broken down then you may need advice on how the assets should be divided. This can be particularly complicated where there are businesses and/or pensions involved.

Areas of specialism

  • Preparing prenuptial agreements
  • Resolving financial matters following separation, divorce or the dissolution of a civil partnership
  • Preparing and negotiating divorce financial settlements
  • Preparing separation agreements
  • Obtaining orders for maintenance
  • Obtaining Pension Sharing Orders
  • Obtaining Clean Break Consent Orders
  • Protecting your property rights
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How should finances be split in a divorce?

In a divorce, finances should be split fairly, considering both parties' needs, contributions, and future financial circumstances. While a 50/50 division is often the starting point, factors like income, resources, needs, contributions, childcare responsibilities, health, and the length of the marriage can influence the final settlement. Legal advice ensures a balanced outcome.

What am I entitled to financially in a divorce?

What you’re entitled to financially in a divorce depends on various factors, includingyou’re your needs and resources, length of the marriage, your financial contributions, future need, and whether you have children. Typically, entitlements may include a share of property, savings, pensions, and spousal or child maintenance, where appropriate. Legal advice ensures a fair outcome.

Does everything get split equally in a divorce?

Not necessarily. While 50/50 is a starting point, settlements are adjusted to reflect financial needs, resources, earning capacity, and the care of any children. The aim is fairness, ensuring both parties are financially stable post-divorce.

Are pensions included in a divorce settlement?

Yes, pensions are significant assets in divorce and can be shared. Courts may issue a pension sharing order or offset its value against other assets, ensuring a fair settlement for both parties.

Do I have to disclose all my finances in a divorce?

Yes, full financial disclosure is required. Both parties must provide accurate details of their income, assets, and debts to ensure transparency and enable a fair division of assets during the settlement process.

What happens to the family home in a divorce?

The family home may be sold, or one party may retain it by way of transfer into their sole name immediately or at a defined date in the future. The court considers factors like children’s needs, financial resources, and housing affordability to decide how the property should be handled.

Can we agree on finances without going to court?

Yes, you can negotiate directly, use mediation, or collaborate with solicitors. Once agreed, the financial settlement must be formalised through a court-approved consent order to ensure it’s legally binding and enforceable.

What is spousal maintenance in divorce?

Spousal maintenance is financial support paid by one spouse to the other if there’s a significant income disparity and the income needs of one party cannot be met by their needs and the other party has excessive income. The amount and duration depend on the recipient’s financial needs and the payer’s ability to provide support.

How long does it take to reach a financial settlement?

The timeframe depends on complexity and cooperation between parties. Agreements can be reached in weeks through mediation, but contested cases requiring court intervention may take several months or longer to resolve.

Can I claim on my ex-spouse’s assets after divorce?

Without a financial order, claims on an ex-spouse’s assets remain open. A clean break order is essential to finalise the financial separation and prevent future claims from being made.

What is a clean break order in divorce?

A clean break order legally severs financial ties between ex-spouses. Once implemented, neither party can make future financial claims, allowing both to move forward independently and without ongoing obligations.

Do I need a solicitor for a financial settlement?

While not mandatory, a solicitor ensures your rights are protected and that the settlement is fair and legally sound. They can also help avoid mistakes that may delay or complicate the process.

Can child maintenance be included in a financial settlement?

Yes, child maintenance can form part of a financial agreement. However, if disputes arise or enforcement is needed, the Child Maintenance Service (CMS) may intervene to ensure compliance with legal obligations.

What factors affect financial settlements?

Courts consider various factors, including the length of the marriage, each party’s financial contributions, earning capacity, age, health, and the welfare of any children when deciding a fair financial settlement.

How can I ensure a fair financial settlement?

Seek expert legal advice, provide full financial disclosure, and focus on practical solutions. Mediation or collaboration with solicitors can also help achieve a settlement that meets both parties’ needs fairly and effectively.

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