How can our matrimonial finance lawyers help?
If you require specialist legal advice regarding your finances during a divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership, our dedicated team is here to support you with:
- Financial settlements, including:
- Property
- Capital assets
- Pensions
- Income
- Asset division
- Spousal maintenance and support
We know that every relationship and family situation is unique, and the same is true of your finances. We take the time to understand your needs, and tailor our legal advice to your specific requirements, guiding you through the process.
What our clients say about us
Why choose Parfitt Cresswell as your matrimonial finance solicitors?
We offer a complimentary initial consultation
It’s a great way to understand your options, get to know us better and make a more informed decision on whether we are the firm for you.
Our fees are straightforward, transparent and honest
After your initial consultation, you will know what your costs are likely to be. Depending on your needs, it may be possible to provide a fixed fee and in circumstances where it is not, a clear estimate will be provided which will be kept under close review.
We are honest, genuine people with an assertive and confident edge
We know how to assertively achieve results and to promote a positive resolution. We do the right thing by you. Not just for today, but for the future too.
We are proud of our rankings and feedback
Our clients often describe our service as “professional,” “friendly,” “a pleasure to deal with,” “first-class,” and “would use again.” But don’t just take our word for it; read their reviews on the independent site, ReviewSolicitors, here.
We are fully authorised and regulated by the SRA
This means we adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. You can be confident that your matter is being handled with integrity, care and full accountability.
We make law accessible
We believe that transparency and understanding are key to a good working relationship. We will endeavour to keep you informed of the latest legal updates and policy changes, in clear terms and without the jargon.
Meet our matrimonial finance lawyers & legal experts
London, Berkshire, Kent, Surrey and Sussex
Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that the finances of a divorce can be complex and emotionally challenging. Below are some common questions our clients often ask us:
How does a divorce settlement work?
When you divorce, you and your spouse have the right to make certain financial claims against one another in the event of a divorce. These include claiming a share of property, capital assets, pension funds and income.
These claims continue during marriage and after divorce unless you obtain an order, either by agreement (known as a “consent order”) or imposed by the court, setting out the terms of the financial settlement.
This is why it is essential that you finalise your financial arrangements by way of a Court approved order upon divorce—to safeguard you from potential future financial claims and upheaval.
What happens if I am unable to agree a divorce settlement?
In the event that you are unable to reach agreement on the division of assets and financial provision with your spouse, the Court has wide powers to address these financial matters. As well as imposing a timetable, they will usually require you to issue an application, during which you will have to provide a comprehensive record of all of your assets.
As part of this application, both parties are required to provide “full and frank disclosure” of their assets, with nothing being left out or obscured. Failing to do this could lead to the Court forcing compliance, and ultimately issuing penalties.
Is the process for dissolving a civil partnership the same as divorce?
In England, there are relatively few differences when dealing with finances in the dissolution of a civil partnership compared to a divorce. The Court will consider which assets constitute ‘matrimonial property’ in the same way as a divorce, with all global assets considered, including assets from before and after the relationship.
The main differences between a dissolution and a divorce occur in Scotland. Here, a fair financial settlement will only include assets accrued during the course of the relationship. There are also differences in what constitutes matrimonial property, with assets such as gifts and inherited assets not included under certain conditions.
Want to know more?
Get your free copy of our The Good Divorce Guide.