When spouses separate, their finances need to be resolved. We have the expertise to advise and assist clients to conclude such matters. We encourage spouses to discuss matters directly, or through mediation, with advice from us prior to any agreement being reached.

If an agreement cannot be reached, an application through the Courts can be made. The Court sets a timetable requiring both spouses to complete detailed financial statements with supporting documentation. We then liaise with you to prepare a statement of issues, questionnaire and chronology. There is then a first Court appointment at which a Judge will set out an agenda for your case which will usually include a date for a Financial Dispute Resolution appointment (FDR). The purpose of the FDR is to see if it is possible to come to an overall financial settlement. Frequently, this is achieved and the Judge will then make an Order. If it is not possible to achieve a settlement at that stage, the Judge will fix a date for a final hearing.

The overall timescale of these proceedings can be nine to twelve months. The vast majority of cases settle by agreement without the need for a final hearing.