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Dividing assets during a divorce can be one of the most stressful and complex parts of ending a marriage

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 As someone who has followed many family law cases and spoken with people going through this difficult time, I know how important it is to understand which assets can be divided and which might be excluded. If you’re wondering what assets cannot be split in a divorce in the UK, this article will help clarify the key points and explain how the law approaches these issues. Matrimonial vs Non-Matrimonial Assets: What’s the Difference? The first step in understanding asset division is to know the difference between matrimonial and non-matrimonial assets. Matrimonial assets are those acquired during the marriage and are generally subject to division. This includes things like the family home, joint savings, pensions built up during the marriage, cars, and household possessions. Non-matrimonial assets, on the other hand, are typically excluded or treated differently. These might include property owned before the marriage, inheritances or gifts received by one spouse alone, personal in...

What Is My Wife Entitled to in a Divorce in the UK? A Blogger’s Deep Dive

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Divorce is never just a legal process—it’s an emotional and financial turning point that can leave both partners with a lot of questions. As someone who’s spent years writing about UK family law and hearing from people navigating these challenges, I know that one of the most pressing concerns is: “What is my wife entitled to in a divorce in the UK?” Let’s break down the essentials, from legal principles to practical advice, so you can approach this difficult chapter with clarity and confidence. Understanding the Basics: No One-Size-Fits-All Answer The Principle of Fairness In the UK, there’s no set formula that dictates exactly what a wife (or husband) will receive in a divorce . Instead, the courts focus on fairness, guided by the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973. Judges look at the whole picture: the length of the marriage, the financial and non-financial contributions of both parties, and what each person will need to move forward. Marital vs. Non-Marital Assets A key point is that ...

Find the Right Divorce Representation for Your Needs

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 If you’re considering ending your marriage, selecting the right legal support is crucial. At Wellingtons Solicitors, we understand that every divorce is unique and demands a tailored approach. Our team specialises in helping clients answer the question: what type of lawyer is best for divorce? We guide you through the differences between family law solicitors, barristers, and mediation specialists, ensuring you’re matched with the expertise your case requires. Our divorce lawyers offer clear advice on dividing assets, child arrangements, and financial settlements, always prioritising your best interests. We value open communication, so you’ll always know where you stand and what your options are. Our solicitors are members of leading professional bodies, giving you confidence in their skills and ethics. We also help you understand key concerns like what assets cannot be split and what your spouse may be entitled to. With Wellingtons Solicitors, you gain a partner who balances ass...

What are the legal protections available for survivors of domestic violence

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 Survivors of domestic violence in the UK and Ireland have access to a range of legal protections designed to keep them safe, hold perpetrators accountable, and support their recovery. These protections operate through both criminal and civil law and include various court orders and support services. Key Legal Protections Available 1. Domestic Violence Protection Orders (DVPOs) / Emergency Barring Orders These are short-term measures that provide immediate protection after an incident of domestic abuse . They can prevent the abuser from contacting the victim and exclude them from the family home, often lasting around a month or up to 8 working days in some jurisdictions. They are designed to give survivors breathing space and time to seek longer-term protection or support. 2. Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs) Issued by family courts, NMOs prohibit an abuser from harassing, threatening, or intimidating the victim. They cover all forms of abuse-physical, emotional, sexual, financial...

Domestic violence remains one of the most pressing and pervasive issues facing the UK today

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Understanding the scope, nature, and legal protections surrounding domestic violence is essential not only to support survivors but also to drive effective prevention and intervention. It is a complex problem that transcends age, gender, sexuality, and social background, affecting intimate relationships and family dynamics in deeply damaging ways.  What Is Domestic Violence? The UK government defines domestic violence as any incident or pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, or abusive behavior between people aged 16 or over who are or have been intimate partners or family members. This broad definition acknowledges that abuse is not limited to physical violence but includes psychological, emotional, sexual, financial, and coercive control forms of harm. Domestic abuse manifests in many ways, including: Physical abuse: Hitting, slapping, punching, or causing physical harm. Sexual abuse: Unwanted sexual contact or coercion. Emotional and psychological abuse: V...

What are attorneys called in London?

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  If you’re seeking legal assistance in London, understanding the terminology and roles of legal professionals is essential. Unlike some countries where the term “attorney” is commonly used, in London-and more broadly in England and Wales-the legal profession is divided mainly into two distinct types of lawyers: solicitors and barristers . This article explains what attorneys are called in London, their roles, how they differ, and the broader legal context in which they operate. The Term “Attorney” in London: What Does It Mean? In England and Wales, the word “attorney” is not commonly used to describe practicing lawyers as it is, for example, in the United States. Instead, the legal profession is traditionally split into: Solicitors Barristers However, “attorney” can still appear in certain contexts, such as in the phrase “power of attorney,” which refers to a legal document authorising someone to act on another’s behalf. But when referring to a legal professional wh...

What is the common law in the UK?

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 The common law system is the cornerstone of the legal framework in England and Wales, shaping how laws are interpreted, applied, and developed. Rooted in centuries of judicial decisions and evolving customs, common law remains a living, adaptive system that balances legislative statutes with judicial precedent.  What Is the Common Law in the UK? A Comprehensive Exploration This article provides an in-depth understanding of what common law is, its historical origins, how it functions in the UK today, and its distinctive features compared to other legal systems. Origins and Historical Development of Common Law The common law tradition in England emerged after the Norman Conquest of 1066. William the Conqueror sought to unify the diverse legal customs of the Anglo-Saxon territories under a single, coherent system. This led to the establishment of a "common" law applicable throughout the kingdom, replacing the patchwork of local laws and customs. King Henry II, reigning from...