Separation Series

Our Family team is very practised with assisting individuals through the difficult experience of separating from a relationship.  This four-part series of Insights provides helpful information to think about before or during this process.

We recommend seeking legal advice specific to your circumstances to put your mind at ease and allow you to focus on yourself and family at this difficult time.  The following is a helpful guide of things to think about and be aware of in advance.

Part one: Preparation

The breakdown of a relationship is stressful and many complex challenges will arise. It is important to look after your interests such as income, property and items valuable to you, and we recommend you consider the following:

 

• Open a bank account in your own name and direct any income from your employment to this account so that after separation it remains your own property;
• If you have any concerns that your access to joint funds may be restricted post separation, transfer money into the above account. This will be accounted for in the final division of property, but it does ensure you have access to funds in the meantime;
• Identify any important documents and items in the family home that you would want to take with you if you move out. This includes your passport, birth certificate, financial records, family heirlooms or anything else precious to you (to avoid it being destroyed or used against you as a bargaining chip). Moving out can limit or in some cases entirely prevent your access to such items so it is helpful to consider this in advance.

 

Next Monday, part two will take you through what you need to be mindful of with care arrangements for children.

If you need any assistance in the meantime, please contact our Relationship Property team.