You can file for divorce online or by post in England and Wales. The process requires proving the marriage has irretrievably broken down under the new no-fault law. A divorce lawyer in London can guide you through filing, financial settlements, and child arrangements.

 Yes, but it’s risky if there are children, shared assets, or disputes. A family lawyer London can protect your rights, help negotiate settlements, and reduce stress.

 Parents usually agree via divorce mediation or apply for a child arrangements order. Courts decide based on the child’s best interests. Experienced child custody lawyers in London support you through this process.

 Divorce mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral mediator helps couples agree on finances and children’s arrangements, avoiding court. It’s cost-effective and less stressful.

 Victims can get urgent protective orders like non-molestation orders. A domestic violence solicitor helps with legal protection and advises on divorce or child custody safely.

Straightforward settlements can take 4–6 months. Complex or disputed cases—especially involving businesses or pensions—may take up to 18 months or more. Timely, clear legal support helps speed things up.

Assets you owned before marriage—like inheritance or property—are often non-matrimonial and not shared. But if they were mixed with joint funds or used during marriage, they may become matrimonial assets.

In the UK, assets are divided based on the principle of fairness, not an automatic 50/50 split. Courts begin with equality but then consider factors like each spouse’s financial needs, income, housing situation, children, contributions, and future earning potential.

Matrimonial assets are assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage. These typically include:

• The family home
• Joint and individual savings accounts
• Pensions and retirement funds
• Investments, ISAs, and shares
• Vehicles, valuables, and jewellery
• Any businesses built up during the marriage

Assets acquired before marriage or through inheritance are generally considered non-matrimonial, but they can be included in the settlement if they’ve been mixed into the couple’s finances or are needed to meet either party’s needs.

Yes, it is possible to keep the family home after divorce, but it depends on your financial situation and whether there are children involved. The court may:

• Transfer the house to one spouse
• Allow one spouse to stay until children turn 18
• Order the property to be sold and proceeds divided

Even if the property is only in one person’s name, both parties may have rights depending on the length of the marriage and family circumstances.

Yes, pensions are considered part of the matrimonial pot and can be shared, especially if they were built up during the marriage. The court can issue a Pension Sharing Order, which gives your ex-spouse a legal share of your pension.

Pensions are often the largest asset in a divorce, even more valuable than the house. Many people overlook them, but securing your share is crucial for long-term financial stability.

Legally, both parties must make full and honest financial disclosure using Form E. Hiding assets is illegal and may result in:

• Court penalties
• Freezing orders
• A financial settlement being reopened or overturned

Common tactics include hiding money in secret bank accounts, undervaluing a business, or failing to disclose cryptocurrency or offshore accounts. Our team at Adam Bernard Solicitors specialises in forensic tracing of hidden assets.

If either spouse owns a business, it may be treated as a marital asset. The court will need to assess:

• The business’s market value
• How it contributes to income
• Whether it should be sold, shared, or offset

We work with independent financial experts to ensure the business is fairly valued and you’re not left at a disadvantage — whether you’re the owner or not.

Assets you owned before the marriage, or inherited separately, may be considered non-matrimonial. However, they can still be included in the settlement if:

• They were used for the family (e.g., buying the home)
• The marriage was long
• They are needed to meet the other party’s needs

Protecting these assets often requires strong legal arguments. A specialist divorce solicitor can help safeguard pre-marital and inherited property.

Form E is the UK’s official financial disclosure form in divorce proceedings. It includes:

• Full details of income, assets, debts, and liabilities
• Property valuations
• Business interests and pension statements
• Monthly budgets and expenses

Form E must be completed honestly and in full. Failing to do so can result in fines or your divorce settlement being challenged. We offer full support in completing and reviewing Form E disclosures.

The timeline varies depending on whether both parties agree. Typically:

• Mediated or negotiated agreements: 3–6 months
• Court-involved settlements: 6–12 months (or longer if complex)

Delays are usually caused by incomplete financial disclosure, disputes over property or pensions, or one party refusing to cooperate. At Adam Bernard Solicitors, we aim to move things forward as quickly and efficiently as possible.

In divorce, joint debts like mortgages, loans, or credit cards don’t disappear. Both parties remain responsible unless:

• One party agrees to take on the full debt
• The debt is repaid or refinanced
• The court orders a division

It’s important to address debts early and protect yourself if your ex stops paying. We help clients secure agreements that avoid future financial issues.

If you or your spouse have substantial assets, including multiple properties, offshore accounts, trusts, or business interests, you’ll need experienced legal guidance. High-net-worth divorces often involve:

• Asset tracing
• Complex business valuations
• International elements
• Freezing orders to prevent asset disposal

Our team at Adam Bernard Solicitors is experienced in complex financial divorce cases, ensuring your wealth and future are protected.