The end of a marriage or serious relationship can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences in life. It’s a time of uncertainty and change – but alongside the emotional impact, there are also practical and legal matters that need to be carefully managed. Knowing what you’ll need to think about if you know you’re approaching a breakdown in your relationship can help protect your interests and give you a more stable future.
Living arrangements
One of the first and most immediate concerns is where each person will live. If you share a home together, you’ll need to decide whether one of you will remain in the property, whether it will be sold or the rental contract terminated, or whether you’ll make temporary arrangements until a longer-term plan is agreed.
It is a good idea to seek legal advice early on, particularly if you own your home jointly or if there is a risk that one partner may be forced to leave
Children
If there are children involved, their stability, wellbeing and routine should be yours and your partner’s top priority. Courts in the UK will prioritise a child’s best interests first, so bear this in mind when discussing arrangements.
Financial considerations
Financial matters can quickly become complex during a separation or divorce. Make a list of all shared and individual assets, including:
● Bank accounts
● Debts and loans
● Mortgages and property
● Pensions
● Investments
● Personal belongings of value
It’s sensible to gather relevant documents now – like bank statements, mortgage details, payslips and pension information.
You may need to open a separate bank account if you currently share finances. Review and update direct debits, joint bills and any financial agreements that could be affected.
If you’re married or in a civil partnership, the rules are different to if you are cohabiting and you may be entitled to a share of assets – even if they’re not in your name. Speaking to a solicitor can help you understand your rights and negotiate a fair settlement when it comes to finances.
Divorce or dissolution
If you’re married or in a civil partnership, you may be considering divorce or dissolution to legally end your relationship. There is now only a no-fault divorce if you live in England, Scotland or Wales, which means a couple can dissolve the marriage without needing to prove that one party was at fault. This is beneficial to many families, especially those with children, as it usually allows the process to proceed more amicably and efficiently.
Even in amicable separations, it’s still highly recommended to get proper and timely legal advice. You’ll need to agree on the division of assets, property, finances and, if applicable, childcare arrangements, which can be complicated and difficult to manage on top of the inevitable emotional turmoil that comes with the ending of a relationship.
Your well-being
It’s easy to overlook your own well-being during such a stressful period, particularly if you have children to think about. Alongside the practical arrangements and decisions, try to make time to talk to friends or family and don’t be afraid to ask for personal or professional support, perhaps in the form of professional counselling. After all, separation is a major life change, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed.
Help protect your well-being during this stressful time and speak to the family law experts at Batt Broadbent.