In this article, we’ll explain what a divorce settlement is and how a divorce settlement is calculated.
For couples who are going through a divorce, the financial side of the relationship breakdown can cause a great deal of worry.
‘Divorce settlement’ is a term which describes how the finances of a couple are to be divided when they divorce. Your divorce settlement can detail everything from how you divide your property, to how any savings and debt will be shared upon divorce.
It is important to note here, that in England and Wales, the divorce process itself does not deal with a couple’s finances. The divorce settlement often runs concurrently with the divorce process. However, getting a divorce does not automatically end the financial relationship between you and your spouse.
If you and your spouse agree on your divorce settlement, the next step is normally to get it made into a legally binding consent order.
Without a divorce settlement, your ex-spouse may be able to make a financial claim against you in the future. There is no time limit for making financial claims against an ex-spouse.
This is why it’s vital that a binding court order, detailing your divorce settlement, is obtained.
If you are not able to agree on your divorce settlement, you may have to go to court and ask a judge to decide for you. This is normally viewed as a last resort, as it can be time-consuming and costly.
Generally, the starting point is a 50/50 split.
However, a court will aim to divide assets in a way which is fair and equal. A 50/50 split is not always the outcome.
Various factors will be considered when determining your divorce settlement, including:
• Your role in the marriage (homemaker, primary earner etc.)
• Your ages
• How long you’ve been married
• Your standard of living
• Your earnings (and potential future earnings)
A divorce settlement can be reopened but it is very rare for this to happen. Once a consent order has been obtained, the financial ties between a couple are broken and the ability to make financial claims is no longer possible.
Changing a divorce settlement is an extremely complex area of law and legal advice should be sought.
As always, it’s highly advisable to seek independent legal advice regarding your divorce settlement. Speaking with a solicitor experienced in this area of law, such as Austin Kemp, as early on as possible in the process, can help you to understand your rights with regards to the divorce settlement and build solid foundations on which to begin negotiations with your spouse.
Our expert family law solicitors can help you with a range of legal issues relating to divorce, including:
For more information call our divorce solicitors on 0845 862 5001 or email mail@austinkemp.co.uk.
Our expert family law solicitors offer a nationwide service. We have client meeting office facilities available, in order to have face-to-face client meetings / conferences as and when required in:
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