Finance and property disputes on divorce or dissolution

Following the breakdown of a relationship disputes can arise in relation to how property and other assets are going to be divided. This can be a very distressing time and is often more complex than the divorce/ dissolution itself.

It is crucial that you have good quality legal advice to assist you through the process of resolving financial disputes whatever approach you wish to take. We recognise that each case is different and as experienced family law solicitors we can advise you on the options that are available to you and tailor our service to meet your individual needs.

What are your options for divorce or dissolution?
You may wish to proceed with the approach of instructing us as solicitors to act firmly on your behalf to help you achieve the best possible settlement based upon your individual circumstances. We can provide you with advice and assistance from the beginning to the end of the process or you may wish for us to assist you through part of the process and deal with part of it yourself. Alternatively, you may wish to consider other options such as trying to resolve matters through non-court dispute resolution such as mediation, arbitration or the private dispute resolution process. In accordance with the Family Procedure Rules 2010, before you can issue a Court application you must first of all attend a mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAMS) (unless specific exemptions apply on which we can advise you).

The Court process for dealing with financial issues pursuant to a divorce or dissolution
The factors that the Court should take into account when dealing with finances associated with your marriage /civil partnership are set out in section 25 of the Matrimonial Cause Act 1973 and include the length of time that you have been married (including any pre-marriage/partnership cohabitation) as well as:

Your ages
Your respective contributions to the welfare of the family
Capital and income resources
Your respective financial needs and obligations
Loss of benefits under pensions
Conduct (in extreme circumstances only)
Any other relevant circumstances

However, The Court has a wide discretion and there may be issues to consider such as pre-marital wealth, contributions and inheritance. Where there are complex assets such as significant pensions, or family businesses, the assesment can be complex and clear legal advise is important.

Reaching a financial settlement
If you and your spouse/partner are able to reach an agreement regarding financial arrangements, we can assist you in putting that agreement into a legally binding document, known as a Consent Order.

Financial settlements may be concluded with a “clean break” which terminates any future financial claims which either party may have against the other. In some cases, however, ongoing maintenance payments may be appropriate.

We can advise you on the options that are available to you. We tailor our services to meet your individual needs.

Fees

We can offer our competitive hourly rates depending on your individual needs. Please call us for more information about our charges.

Please contact us for more information on 0113 320 5000 email family@winstonsolicitors.co.uk.

Client feedback

I have received nothing but a fantastic service from Emily Bell and Harriet Reid during a challenging time. They have always been responsive and to the point with their communication. I am grateful for all the help I have received.

Bill

This be my 2nd time I've used Winston Solicitors & both times they have been Extremely Professional both Teresa & Judith fully understood my frustration on what was going on at that time but with Time & again Professional attitude i was Very Happy with there hard work i seriously recommend Winston Solicitors as they turn over every stone what needs to be done thank you Regards Ryan Doyle

Ryan

After having a very bad start to my court case with another solicitor- I was recommended Wendy and she was brilliant. I had great support from the start got the results I asked for. Highly recommend

Martina

Wendy at Winston solicitors was outstanding in supporting me through the complications of my divorce. She was compassionate, understanding and most importantly efficient throughout a difficult time and after having had a negative experience at a different solictors. I will be eternally grateful for everything Wendy has done - thank you.

John

Harriet at Winston Solicitors provided exceptional service while handling a matter for my mother during a particularly stressful time. She was incredibly thoughtful and reassuring throughout the process, always taking the time to ensure my mother felt comfortable and well-informed. Harriet’s approach felt very personal, and it was clear she genuinely cared about delivering the best possible outcome. I highly recommend Harriet for her professionalism, empathy, and dedication to her clients.

Amrit

Very happy with Winston's solicitors, I was able to be seen at very short notice which helped me out a lot, felt reassured with the short time i spent there, Hannah was very helpful and listened thoroughly to gain an understanding of what I was dealing with, I wouldn't hesitate to use again in the future if necessary

Richard

Very good service throughout my whole divorce proceedings. Good communication and ability to use online meetings to prevent need to travel to their offices.Flexible and worked alongside my work schedule.Felt like they gave me fair and realistic advice, with a friendly and understanding approach.Good breakdown of costs and clear billing processes.

Matthew R

Harriet Reid was so helpful and kind dealing with my divorce. My main aim was for it to be fair and amicable, and to this end she worked with me to make sure it was so. She organised the drawing up of my will and was always at the end of an email or phone when needed. Thoroughly recommend her.

Lucy

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