In this divorce and finances matter, Thrings acted on behalf of the husband on a collaborative basis.
The husband was a self-employed businessman with national and international sales about to take off when both Brexit went through and the pandemic struck. His business generated the sole income for the family, his wife working in the voluntary sector. They had shared care of the children.
In all cases of divorce, there is an element of support and guidance needed – it’s a very difficult time. But here the parties had very different expectations as to outcome and their respective needs.
The assets in the matter included the business, various properties and pensions, giving total assets of around £5 million.
A complicating factor in the matter was the wife’s mother was extremely ill and there was a likelihood of an inheritance in the near future.
Gathering information as to what was in the matrimonial “pot” and negotiating against the backdrop of the pandemic, political issues and future events, as well as managing the parties’ expectations was tricky as there were arguments that the inheritance should be ring fenced for the wife, that the business may rapidly fall in value and the needs of the parties, including the children as well as the fairness of a division for all concerned were a priority.
On a collaborative basis, both parties and their solicitors were able to meet and work through all of the issues and all possible options for division, or otherwise. They were helped to explore the options both subjectively and objectively. Meeting as a group was certainly helpful in keeping focus and ongoing communication and allowed the parties to ensure that their primary objective going forwards, being good, joint parents for the children, will be met.
This case was an important illustration of our approach to managing cases effectively and precisely, as well as illustrating the team’s empathetic approach and skill in supporting the client through difficult, personal circumstances.
For more information contact Fiona Kellow at fkellow@thrings.com
