Here, Helen Pidgeon, the Principal of Helen Pidgeon Solicitors, family law specialists in Chiswick, considers when and why a pre or a post nuptial agreement might be something to consider in England & Wales. A nuptial agreement seeks to limit the potential awards the court could make on divorce. A pre-nuptial agreement is made before a marriage ceremony and a …
What are your Rights if Your Relationship Breaks Down?
Whether you’re in a marriage or civil partnership – what are your rights if your relationship breaks down? There’s even more choice now to legally formalize and protect your relationship after the Civil Partnership (Opposite-sex Couples) Regulations 2019 came into effect on 2 December 2019 meaning opposite sex couples can now enter into a civil partnership too. On divorce or …
Brexit and its Impact on Divorce
Why does family law matter to Brexit? In 2018 one in three children were born to at least one parent who was born outside of the UK. Some of the most common countries of origin for mothers and father are from the EU. Sadly it’s inevitable that some of those relationships are going to breakdown. Financial settlements upon divorce and …
Technology Is Changing the Management of International Divorces
Divorce is rarely as straightforward as it seems, and it becomes even more complicated when it concerns an international couple who maybe in different countries. From time zones to regulations, managing a divorce is difficult to do when key parties are spread out over the globe. Luckily, technology is making it easier to manage the process. New Management Strategies There are a …
How does Mediation work in an International Divorce Case?
How you can shape the outcome of your separation to make the best decisions for your family even if you may all be in different jurisdictions. What is Mediation? Mediation offers a neutral environment to discuss issues concerning arrangements for your children and the family’s finances following a decision to separate. We focus on what matters to you both and …
Arrangements for your children when your family resides in both US and UK
Separation can prove challenging for all involved. But when families are split between the US and UK, it becomes all the more difficult to navigate this trying process. Knowing the similarities and differences between regions can help, however as can understanding just how to proceed. Here’s is some practical advice. Family Law Similarities and Differences in the US and UK …
Red flags- things to be aware of when entering or exiting a relationship
EARLY STAGES Thinking of obtaining a pre-nup? This should be signed at least 28 days before the marriage. Please leave good time to negotiate one, at least 3 months (preferably 6 months) before. A post nup may in some circumstances be more appropriate. Beware Soft Loans – If a family member or friend is lending you money, you should enter …
Pre- and Post- Nuptial Agreements
Nuptial Agreements, Why Are They a Good Idea? Case law has evolved so that where there are significant assets an equal division will be the starting point unless there are good reasons otherwise. Outcomes on divorce are uncertain and subject to the wide discretion of a judge. Ever evolving case law and the lack of clarity (such as for example …
Cohabitation v Marriage
As the Government announce plans for civil partnerships as an alternative to marriage for all we consider how your legal rights on separation are significantly different if you are living together rather than in a marriage or civil partnership. As more and more people have children outside of marriage, (records now show this accounts for 48% of all births), and …
Moving in together?
Congratulations, you found that special person and are now moving in together. It is important to understand the significantly different level of legal protection given to cohabitees as opposed to that enjoyed by married couples. There is no such thing as “common law marriage”. As far as the law goes you are either married or not and a different regime …