Family Law Solicitor
Furley Page
Financial settlements remain contentious during divorce proceedings, despite new ‘no fault’ reforms designed to simplify the separation process.
It remains essential for couples to seek professional legal advice when dealing with financial issues during their divorce.
The new no fault divorce system will improve couples’ ability to deal with divorce in a co-operative and constructive manner, which is certainly welcome, and couples now have the opportunity to apply jointly to the Court via the new online platform and to handle to process together.
However, there are still a number of areas in which using a lawyer will be highly advisable, particularly where financial matters are concerned. Despite efforts to simplify the process, the way finances are dealt with during divorce remains complex. There is a long list of factors to take into consideration, as set out in the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, Section 25.
It is essential to get a good understanding of your financial rights and obligations as soon as possible. Entering into negotiations without first understanding what you might be entitled to, or required to provide, can create an unrealistic expectation on your spouse’s part that they could struggle to move on from, even if they then take professional advice at a later stage.
It is also advisable to settle financial matters within the divorce process because once the final order is made, entitlements to certain financial benefits as a spouse will cease immediately.
Furthermore, to have the financial settlement formally concluded it will need to be drawn up by a family solicitor in such a way to ensure the terms are approved by the Court and are formally binding on each spouse.
The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Act 2020 came into force from 6 April 2022 and introduced wide-ranging reforms. Under the new system, the acrimonious conduct allegations, and need to evidence separation, have been replaced by a simple statement of irretrievable breakdown.
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About Megan Bennie
Megan Bennie is a family law solicitor at Furley Page. Megan joined the team in 2021, having gained valuable previous experience at specialist family law firms featured in the Legal 500 directory.
Megan advises on all aspects of relationship breakdown, whether divorce or separation, including in relation to civil partnerships, dealing with issues such as the appropriate division of finances and ongoing arrangements for children.
Megan also assists couples seeking to formalise arrangements through pre and post nuptial agreements and cohabitation (or living together) agreements.
Megan is primarily based at the Chatham office but is also available for meetings at either the Canterbury or Whitstable offices.