My partner has cut me off from our money. What can I do?

During the breakdown of a relationship, the party who controls the finances may stop providing financial support or restrict access to joint funds or credit facilities.

This can leave one party without sufficient funds to meet their living expenses or legal costs. In some cases, solicitors may seek to negotiate interim financial support directly with the other party. However, this is not always successful and disputes can arise regarding the amount that should be paid.

If your partner has cut you off financially, it may be necessary to apply to the court for financial support. An application for maintenance pending suit can be made after financial remedy proceedings have been issued and is most commonly used in divorce proceedings, although it may be available in other circumstances.

The court may order one party to make interim maintenance payments or, in some cases, contribute towards the other party’s legal fees.

When making a decision, the court will consider factors such as the standard of living during the relationship, both parties’ financial resources, and their respective needs and obligations.

If you are in this situation, it is important to seek independent legal advice as soon as possible.