Family law, relationships, separation & divorce: thoughts & comment
How prenuptial agreements are viewed varies across the globe. In many countries, they are a common step taken ahead of marriage, in others they are almost unheard of. Some EU countries enable a couple to elect a specific “matrimonial property” regime, which governs how their assets will be divided on divorce. For international couples who... Continue Reading →
It is more difficult than ever for young people to get a foot on the housing ladder. With rising property prices, growing inflation and the cost-of-living crisis increasing outgoings, young people are relying on their parents more than ever for financial assistance. To get a foot on the property ladder, many young adults are buying... Continue Reading →
One of the most exciting decisions in a new relationship is when to pool resources and buy a home together. Whatever your age, this is a huge decision and not only a mutual sign of commitment to the relationship but also the undertaking of a serious financial obligation, which should be given thought and planning.... Continue Reading →
The case of MN v AN [2023] EWHC 613 (Fam) is the latest reminder of the court’s position that valid prenuptial agreements will be upheld if challenged on divorce. Case background In 2005, the parties entered into a prenuptial agreement. Prior to the marriage, the husband owned assets totalling £32.5 million in contrast to the wife’s assets... Continue Reading →
The courts have been under increasing pressure for years, and this has come to a head as a result of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. In finance cases on divorce where the parties can’t agree how to split their assets, resulting in one party making an application to court, delays continue to increase. The... Continue Reading →
When a couple with dependent children divorce or separate they will be very aware of the impact this will have on their children, and this will normally be a major consideration in the decision about whether and when to separate. However, often less thought is given to the impact that a separation can have upon... Continue Reading →
Once your finances are sorted, your order is in place and Decree Absolute has been made, it can be difficult to know what to do next. After a few months of intense discussions and legal processes, coming to the end of a separation can feel like a huge anti-climax. Points to consider before applying for... Continue Reading →
Mothers’ details will be included on marriage certificates for the first time from May 2021. The Government is set to reform the law around the information to be contained within marriage certificates. A new system of marriage registration will form part of the reforms to the Civil Partnerships, Marriages and Deaths Act 2019 which... Continue Reading →
Earlier this week, I wrote about parents' concerns surrounding Covid-19 and what the Government’s lockdown plan would mean for their child arrangements. However what has become clear from speaking to clients old, existing and new is that for many, matters have not been quite as straight forward as simply keeping arrangements going as usual (on... Continue Reading →
Getting around to doing some “life admin” easily falls to the bottom of any to do list when competing with the demands work and family life, but taking some time out to make sure that you are protecting yourself, whatever your relationship status, can reap benefits should things not pan out as expected. Wills Making... Continue Reading →
Picking up the pieces 