Financial orders

Going through a divorce is stressful enough without adding financial uncertainty. Media accounts of celebrity divorces can sometimes give the impression that divorce is all about fighting for money. Our family law team makes every possible attempt to negotiate a financial settlement that both parties can agree to.

But what if you can’t agree? Then it may be necessary to issue an ‘Ancillary Relief Application’ at the court. The court will then assist to manage the process so that a fair division of capital and income can be achieved, this will be done with reference to standard of living, financial responsibilities, earning capacity and so on. In this event our experienced lawyers will work with you to achieve the best possible outcome.

We can help if you need advice on:

• Spousal maintenance
• Dealing with the matrimonial home
• Tracing 'concealed' assets
• Enforcing an order
• Child maintenance and the CSA

or anything else relating to divorce and finance.

Read more : The financial procedure explained.

Pensions

One of the trickiest problems divorcing couples have to solve is how to fairly divide the pension. In long marriages, pensions can be a major asset. Fortunately, since December 2000 the position has been much clearer. Courts can now make ‘pension sharing orders’ expressed in percentage terms.

We can help you with advice on:

• Obtaining a pension sharing order
• Issues relating to lump sums on retirement or death in service
• How pensions are valued by the courts
• Tax issues