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With the passing of another year came another fantastic away day!

When going through a divorce, many people wonder whether they can receive a lump sum from their spouse’s pension as part of the financial settlement. Pension Sharing Orders allow for the fair division of pension benefits, but they are governed by specific rules. If you're seeking a clean break or need access to funds quickly, it's important to understand how a pension share works and whether a lump sum payment is an option.

When couples choose to live together without getting married, it’s important that they consider how their financial affairs and property rights are structured. Many people assume that living together gives them similar legal rights to married couples, but this is not the case. In the event of a separation, unmarried couples have very limited legal protection unless formal agreements are put in place. Two of the most common ways to protect your interests are through a cohabitation agreement and a deed of trust.

A prenuptial agreement (also referred to as a ‘prenup’) is often associated with high-net-worth individuals or celebrities, but, in reality, it can be a valuable tool for many couples who want to plan for their future responsibly. As more people marry later in life, bring property or children from previous relationships into a marriage, or build businesses together, the idea of protecting assets in case the relationship breaks down is increasingly being seen as sensible rather than cynical.

When couples begin planning a future together, discussions about finances and asset protection may not seem like a priority. However, in the event of a divorce or separation, clear agreements made in advance can significantly reduce uncertainty and conflict. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are legal tools designed to set out what should happen to assets, property, and finances if the marriage were to break down.

Divorce settlements in England and Wales can be complex, especially when determining what each party is entitled to after the dissolution of the marriage. Many individuals are left wondering what their legal rights are and how the financial settlement will be decided. Understanding the key factors involved in the division of assets is essential for navigating the divorce process.

An occupation order is a legal order issued by the Family Court that determines who has the right to live in the family home in relationship breakdowns involving domestic violence. If an occupation order has been issued against you and you believe it was made in error or that your circumstances have changed, it may be possible to apply to have the order overturned, varied, or discharged. This process can be complicated, so it is essential to understand the legal steps involved and seek professional advice.

With the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, it’s becoming increasingly common for individuals to hide assets during divorce proceedings. Bitcoin (and other digital currencies) offer a degree of anonymity and can be difficult to trace, making them an appealing option for those attempting to conceal wealth from their spouse. However, attempting to hide Bitcoin during a divorce is not only unethical but also illegal, and it can significantly impact the outcome of your divorce settlement.

When unmarried parents separate, questions often arise around who has custody of the child, and each parent’s legal standing. In England and Wales, the term “custody” is no longer used; instead, the courts talk about “child arrangements”. These determine where the child lives and who they spend time with.