What is a Form E1?
June 2025
A Form E1 is a financial statement used for financial disclosure in specific family law proceedings in England and Wales. It plays a critical role in ensuring transparency and fairness in those applications. The form is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of an individual's financial circumstances, enabling the court to make informed decisions regarding the financial arrangements if the parties cannot reach an agreement directly.
This summary provides general information and does not constitute legal advice on any individual circumstances.
How and When is a Form E1 Used?
The primary purpose of a Form E1 is to facilitate financial disclosure in proceedings such as applications under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989, applications to alter maintenance agreements, or cases involving the financial position of a respondent after a divorce or dissolution. Similarly to a Form E, the Form E1 should be completed in advance of the First Directions Appointment, in compliance with the court timetable, which will be set out when the application is issued. If the parties are exchanging Forms E1 voluntarily (that is, outside the court process), they can agree their deadline themselves.
Unlike a Form E, however, which is used in broader financial remedy proceedings, a Form E1 is tailored to address specific financial disclosure needs, excluding information relevant only to matrimonial or civil partnership financial orders. While it is a shorter, more comprehensive form than the Form E, it still requires a full and accurate picture of each party's financial situation from the outset of the case so that the parties and the court can determine a fair financial settlement in the circumstances, taking into account each individual’s needs, and those of any children involved.
How to Complete a Form E1
Completing Form E1 requires detailed information about each party's financial affairs. This includes listing all sources of income, assets such as properties, savings, investments, and life insurance policies, as well as liabilities like debts or loans. Each asset and liability should be fully disclosed to provide a complete overview of the financial landscape.
The form will also ask for information regarding each party’s needs, including any dependents or children who might be impacted by the financial settlement.
It's crucial that all financial details are accurately recorded in Form E1, as any discrepancies or omissions can delay proceedings or affect the court's final decision. The form must also be verified by a statement of truth, affirming that the information provided is accurate and complete to the best of the individual's knowledge. This obligation underscores the importance of honesty and transparency, as any failure to disclose relevant financial information could have serious legal consequences. Legal advice is highly recommended when completing this form to ensure that the information provided is thorough and correctly filled out.
If you are required to complete a Form E1, it is advisable to begin the process as early as possible to avoid last-minute complications.
What Happens After Submitting a Form E1?
Once both parties have completed and exchanged their Forms E1, they will have the opportunity to ask any questions that should arise regarding the other person’s disclosure. Any questions that cannot be agreed can be addressed at the First Directions Appointment as part of the court’s case management.
Once the parties are confident that full disclosure has been exchanged, they can begin to consider the appropriate financial settlement in those circumstances, with the court’s guidance where necessary. It is important to complete the Form E1 with diligence and care, as it serves as the cornerstone of this process.
How Can Fullers Help?
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