High net worth divorce and family law

I am getting a divorce. The situation is quite complicated, including financial investments. Can you help?

Hi, I'm Emma Collins. I'm Fiona Davidson. We're solicitors in the family team at Weightmans.

Recognising the impact of your decision

We recognise that the breakdown of a relationship is a huge event for anyone to come to terms with; it has an impact on your family that's both domestic and financial.

Establishing the jurisdiction is important

We need to establish what jurisdiction to issue divorce proceedings in. This will depend on where you and your spouse live. Generally, this jurisdiction favours the more economically weaker spouse.

Considering the split of finance and assets

Deciding how finances are divided on divorce starts with the disclosure and valuation process. This includes valuing companies, pensions, trust assets - we look at assets that may be offshore. It's important to establish what assets may have been acquired prior to the marriage, such as inherited wealth and also pre and post nuptial agreements can play a significant role.

Resolving disputes by mediation

Financial matters can be dealt with voluntarily. We might consider using a collaborative law process or mediation. Or it might be through correspondence with your spouse's solicitors. Alternatively, it may be necessary for us to issue an application to the court to deal with matters.

Also, if there any urgent financial matters to be dealt with, we might need to consider injunctive action.

We would also sometimes involve our corporate and tax teams if there are specialist issues that need to be resolved.

Could you be entitled to maintenance?

We should also discuss your maintenance requirements. We will need to discuss your costs and whether you can obtain a litigation loan or whether you can make an application for assistance with your legal costs from your spouse.