- Should I apply for a Court Order? My ex and I are in dispute over the children.18th November 2020 - Children
Separation is a stressful time particularly when children are involved. The breakdown of marriage or a long terms relationship is one of the most emotionally draining life events. Read More
- Can I see my children as an exception to Covid-19 tier restrictions?16th October 2020 - Bastow Blogs
With the Government introducing the Three Tier system on Wednesday and some areas being subject to harsher lockdown restrictions than they were last week. Read More
- Will Covid-19 tier restrictions effect contact with your children?14th October 2020 - Bastow Blogs
Lockdown restrictions eased between 23 June 2020 and 01 August 2020 and the UK started towards a reconstructed normality after almost three months of a complete lockdown. Read More
- Video – Separating? Before you move out, make sure you take advice.26th February 2020 - Bastows Videos
Read More
- The Side Effects of Getting A Divorce25th February 2020 - Separation and Divorce
Many people contemplate getting a divorce for years. Their fear of change and loss overrides their wish or need for a different future. Read More
- Should I stay or should I go now?15th January 2016 - Separation and Divorce
The agony of indecision. Not bad enough to leave not good enough to stay. Some people contemplate the decision to leave their partner for many years. Read More
- Divorce without pain in celebrity land20th November 2015 - Separation and Divorce
Halle Berry and Olivier Martinez announce divorce after two years
The fashion in celebrity land appears to be a quiet divorce and continuation of family life. Read More
- English courts to rule on International Spousal Maintenance Claim17th November 2015 - International Divorce
It is important to ensure that the financial aspect of your divorce is complete especially if you are a rich international businessman or woman. Read More
- Fraud and the Supreme Court’s decision in Sharland10th November 2015 - Consent Orders
The case of Sharland v Sharland in the Supreme Court confirms that fraud will not be tolerated in the Family Courts and the previous Consent Order was set aside with an order for a re-hearing of the wife’s claim. Read More
- What happens after decree absolute?9th November 2015 - Separation and Divorce
The divorce process in England and Wales is made of the seven stages. It is fault-based and the majority of petitions are based upon what is known as “behaviour”. Read More
- Is £700,000 legal fees value for money?4th July 2014 - Bastow Blogs
Here is a post that was lying fallow in my draft box:
A Judge has expressed despair over a wealthy family that have legal fees in excess of £700,000.00 and their case is still focused on a preliminary issue as reported in The Telegraph. Read More
- Do you believe him? Scot Young on the rack19th November 2013 - Bastow Blogs
Britain’s most acrimonious divorce continues.
Scot Young is facing some tough questions. Is he bankrupt or is he a liar hiding vast wealth? Read More
- Not bad enough to leave, not good enough to stay?11th November 2013 - Separation and Divorce
Some people live in relationship limbo-land for years. They can’t decide whether to leave or stay. Read More
- Divorce for over 60’s on rise…14th August 2013 - Separation and Divorce
More people over 60 are getting divorced, which is the opposite trend to the rest of the nation’s age groups. Read More
- Why do I need a Consent Order?11th June 2013 - Consent Orders
In a recent case (Vince v Wyatt), a former traveller, whom at the time of his divorce was on state benefits, had the unwelcome news that his ex wife was seeking a share of his multi-million pound fortune 20 years after they had divorced. Read More
- Any point in having a Consent Order on divorce?18th April 2013 - Consent Orders
One compelling reason: Legal finality.
What are the problems if I don’t have one?
Your ex-spouse can come back at any time in the future and make a claim against you, regardless of how much money you have given them to go away, regardless on how fair your agreed division was. Read More
- Is there any divorce news out there?10th April 2013 - Bastow Blogs
Most of the news is gloomy.
End of legal aid for many.
Rich divorcing couples told off by judges for squabbling and squandering their money on legal fees. Read More
- Fixed fee divorce from COOP – is it what it says on the tin?2nd April 2013 - Bastow Blogs
The COOP have obtained a lot of press interest today – the day after Legal Aid is withdrawn by claiming that they offer fixed fee legal advice unlike other solicitors. Read More
- What is a clean break?21st March 2013 - Consent Orders
Lots of people hear this term when they are contemplating divorce and separation but they do not know what it means. Read More
- Does every marriage have its secrets?11th March 2013 - Separation and Divorce
The fate of Chris Huhne and Vicky Pryce is to be determined by a judge today who will hand down their sentences upon their conviction for perverting the course of justice. Read More
- Fixed fee collaborative law in a nutshell5th March 2013 - Separation and Divorce
Fixed Fee Collaborative Law
The Structure
Four way meetings which includes you, your partner, your lawyer, and your partner’s lawyer. Read More
- Fixed Fee Collaborative Law3rd March 2013 - Separation and Divorce
We are excited to announce our Fixed Fee Collaborative Law Service.
Both lawyers have agreed to work for a fixed fee – they work together but from different firms so both you and your ex-partner can benefit from this excellent deal. Read More
- How will you access Publicly Funded Mediation after April 1st?22nd February 2013 - Mediation
The vast majority of Publicly Funded Mediation clients are referred to a Mediator via their Publicly Funded solicitor. Read More
- Why do I need a Consent Order on divorce?27th December 2012 - Consent Orders
One of the irritating things about getting divorced in England and Wales is that the divorce itself does not deal with the finances. Read More
- Certainty in divorce payouts better than fairness?19th December 2012 - Separation and Divorce
Our current system for dividing the spoils upon divorce is the most uncertain of all. It is based upon an individual judge’s view of what is fair. Read More
- High Court rules – debt to ex-wife remains after bankruptcy26th November 2012 - Bastow Blogs
If one party goes bankrupt after a divorce and has not repaid the other what happens to the debt? Read More
- Equality at last… women upset by divorce settlements9th October 2012 - Separation and Divorce
The aim when couples divorce is to rehouse both in similar housing commensurate with the standard of living during the marriage and taking into account all the factors of the case. Read More
- Why not forgive adultery and stay married?30th August 2012 - Bastow Blogs
So we British should loosen up, commit adultery and stay happily married like the French?
An article in The Telegraph admonishes us to do just that. Read More
- Divorcing woman wins right to move house26th June 2012 - Children
In an unusual case, a father had succeeded in applying for a Prohibited Steps Order to prevent his divorcing wife moving house – this was to facilitate Contact with his children as he lived nearby. Read More
- What is family law arbitration?16th April 2012 - Separation and Divorce
Arbitration is now available for Family Law disputes. It was set up last month by the non profit making Institute of Family Law Arbitrators. Read More
- How to show your spouse is hiding assets5th March 2012 - Separation and Divorce
When divorcing it is no longer possible to follow the self help route and obtain the other parties documents to show that they have more money than they are admitting to. Read More
- Change equals fear or excitement – you choose18th October 2011 - Separation and Divorce
The fear of change can paralyse some people into staying in an unhappy situation for years. Read More
- Still wondering if it’s worth having a prenuptial agreement?2nd August 2011 - Separation and Divorce
Let this be a lesson to you.
Britain’s biggest divorce payout has been reported in The Guardian. Read More
- Separating and want to grab your ex’s financial documents?15th June 2011 - Separation and Divorce
When couples separate there is often a lack of trust. This can be based upon events that have happened or worry and anxiety about events that might happen. Read More
- What does a business valuation in divorce achieve?4th April 2011 - Separation and Divorce
If there is a dispute as to the valuation of the family business it will be necessary to instruct a forensic accountant on a joint basis to value the business. Read More
- Want a share of your spouse’s premarital asset?29th March 2011 - Separation and Divorce
The High Court has ruled that a wife cannot have a bigger slice of her husband’s wealth as reported in The Telegraph. Read More
- Fight to end payments to “work-shy” ex-wife23rd March 2011 - Separation and Divorce
According to the The Telegraph, the Court of Appeal will hear a banker’s case to end his monthly maintenance payments to his ex-wife. Read More
- Credit card companies predict divorce 2 years in advance20th March 2011 - Bastow Blogs
According to the Vice President of Google, credit card companies can predict who is going to get divorced 2 years in advance – with 98% accuracy. Read More
- Divorce rate falls again21st February 2011 - Bastow Blogs
According to the Office of National Statistics the number of divorces in England and Wales has fallen for the sixth year running. Read More
- Arise the litigant in person25th January 2011 - Bastow Blogs
The reduction in Legal Aid is predicted to see an increase in the number of litigants in person. Read More
- Lawyers warn against cheap divorce services18th January 2011 - Separation and Divorce
An article in The Observer outlines the pitfalls of using an online divorce service.
The article states that it is suitable for people with no assets, or children and who have had a short marriage. Read More
- Prenuptial agreements to be made legally binding?5th January 2011 - Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Government legal advisers are drawing up plans to make Prenuptial Agreements legally binding according to the Daily Mail. Read More
- Want a divorce? Put on some weight23rd December 2010 - Bastow Blogs
Apparently men go off women who add girth… even if it is only half a stone as reported in the Daily Mail. Read More
- Is it worth getting a Consent Order?26th November 2010 - Consent Orders
Yes if you want peace of mind!
Getting divorced is not enough.
A lottery winner paid his ex-wife who he had been divorced from for 10 years £2 million in an out of Court settlement as reported in The Daily Mail. Read More
- Want to set aside your divorce settlement?17th November 2010 - Separation and Divorce
A father and son are in Court arguing over whether the £5.1 million paid to the deceased mother upon divorce should be varied. Read More
- Family Legal Aid to be cut15th November 2010 - Separation and Divorce
Ken Clarke announced today no more Legal Aid for Private Family Law cases unless they involve domestic violence, forced marriage or risk of children being taken into care as reported in The Guardian. Read More
- Prenuptial agreements carry more legal clout in England and Wales20th October 2010 - Pre-Nuptial Agreements
The Supreme Court has ruled that Pre-Nuptial Agreements, entered into willingly by both parties, are to be given decisive weight unless there are factors which render it unfair as reported throughout the press and the attached is Channel 4’s version. Read More
- What happens if my spouse goes bankrupt?1st October 2010 - Consent Orders
If your spouse is adjudged bankrupt whilst Divorce Proceedings are ongoing then any subsequent agreement concerning the Matrimonial Finances can be set aside by the Trustee in Bankruptcy. Read More
- Would you stay with a cheat?22nd September 2010 - Bastow Blogs
Seems it depends what else he/she has going for him. According to this article in the Daily Mail one wealthy Surrey housewife has decided to stay with her husband as she cannot give up the lifestyle. Read More
- Has divorce got easier?13th September 2010 - Bastow Blogs
Is divorce now acceptable? Expected even? It is certainly more affordable with the tax credits system. Read More
- The ethics of dating during divorce26th August 2010 - Separation and Divorce
Yes or no?
People often ask:
“Can I date now that we’ve started divorce proceedings?”
The answer most often is:
“No!”
Amicable divorces can be turned into acrimonious divorces overnight if your spouse finds out. Read More
- Is it worth having a Pre-Nuptial Agreement?4th August 2010 - Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Yes!
As the law stands they are one of the factors that the Court can take into account in deciding what is a fair settlement based on the individual case facts. Read More
- Thinking of stealing and copying your ex’s documents?29th July 2010 - Bastow Blogs
Some people going through divorce and separation obtain copies of their ex-partner’s financial documents without permission of their ex in the interest of “self help”. Read More
- So more people are divorcing?26th July 2010 - Bastow Blogs
Yet another boring article by the Daily Mail this time claiming that the Divorce rate is about to rise as the recession is ending. Read More
- Capital – the type of orders the courts can make9th July 2010 - Separation and Divorce
In a divorce the legal ownership of assets can be distributed by the Courts in the following ways:
Lump Sum Order
The Court can order one spouse to transfer a lump sum to another. Read More
- Can I enforce an agreement?30th June 2010 - Separation and Divorce
Perhaps. Even a Private Agreement, such as a verbal Agreement to “split everything equally”.
If it is deemed fair to hold both parties to the Agreement then the court will uphold it, even if it would have ordered a different settlement. Read More
- What happens at a divorce workshop?29th May 2010 - Separation and Divorce
I have set up a series of divorce workshops to answer the questions you need answering when you are contemplating divorce:
What are my rights? Read More
- Want your ex back?7th May 2010 - Bastow Blogs
Some people can’t get over a separation and desperately want a reconciliation.
If you have any chance at all remember:
Begging and Pleading is not attractive. Read More
- Divorce workshop26th April 2010 - Separation and Divorce
I have set up a new blog Divorce Workshop to discuss the Divorce Workshops which I am holding. Read More
- Bankruptcy and divorce double trouble22nd April 2010 - Bastow Blogs
There is a big difference between £400 million and zero, the varying estimates of Mr Young’s worth. Read More
- Why do I need a Consent Order?22nd April 2010 - Consent Orders
A Consent Order is the legal document which finalises financial claims on divorce.
There is normally a clause which states “in full and final settlement of all claims which either party has against the other”. Read More
- Why get divorced?5th April 2010 - Bastow Blogs
There should be only one reason – because you have tried every reasonable route to compromise and you cannot stand living with your spouse any longer. Read More
- How to stop your wife getting everything19th March 2010 - Bastow Blogs
The results of getting divorced can be very unfair. Some people are unconcerned and simply move on – some go to extremes – burn it down before she gets hold of it is a phrase we have all heard. Read More
- How to tell if your ex is jealous23rd June 2009 - Separation and Divorce
What happens when your ex tries to cause trouble?
Lots of people in this world are jealous – it is obvious to everyone except them! Read More
- Not happy with your divorce settlement?8th June 2009 - Consent Orders
Sorry I have not been blogging recently – I have been engulfed in all things baby! Read More
- Does it matter who divorces who?21st April 2008 - Separation and Divorce
Sometimes it matters a lot. If you are the petitioner you have control of the proceedings and the respondent can only stop the divorce under very limited circumstances and if the petition is based on certain facts. Read More
- Enjoy your Christmas?2nd January 2008 - Bastow Blogs
Spending fun time with friends and family can bond couples together and add fond memories to their loving relationship. Read More
- Will getting divorced make me happier?3rd December 2007 - Separation and Divorce
That depends on why you are getting divorced and how unhappy you are now. Only you know the answer to this. Read More
- Can a holiday together save your marriage?26th November 2007 - Bastow Blogs
Probably not!
Going away together and being forced to spend all day and night in each others’ company can be the final sign that divorce is afoot. Read More
- Nervous about going to court?15th October 2007 - Separation and Divorce
This is a seasonal photo, looking forward to and celebrating Halloween, Bonfire night, crisp autumn evenings and the fact that we live in this country in this century! Read More
- Looking for free legal advice?27th September 2007 - Separation and Divorce
When people are going through separation and divorce they can react in panic and seek advice from where ever they can get it. Read More
- Ready to jump?18th September 2007 - Bastow Blogs
Lots of people think about getting divorced for at least 2 years before they do anything about it. Read More
- The continuing fall in the divorce rate5th September 2007 - Bastow Blogs
I have been so busy that I have not had time to post on this blog, or do my knitting! Read More
- What is a Consent Order?4th July 2007 - Consent Orders
This is one of the most popular search terms on this blog. Everyday there are hits relating to this. Read More
- The importance of a clean break28th June 2007 - Separation and Divorce
If ever you have a chance to buy out a nominal maintenance order or need to litigate to get rid of one, this article in THE TIMES should be a warning to all you men out there to make sure you get a clean break! Read More
- The unintended consequences of divorce part 218th June 2007 - Bastow Blogs
Remorse
No matter how much you wanted it there will usually be a sense of regret and failure. Read More
- Can reconciliation work?12th June 2007 - Separation and Divorce
Maybe, rarely, not in my experience.
Surprisingly, it is typically couples who have gone through the most acrimonious divorce who choose to reconcile. Read More
- Divorce resource?11th June 2007 - Separation and Divorce
I have been contacted by Ian Rispin, a man going through divorce who has felt the need to set up a divorce information website wikivorce which he describes as the:
“first social/networking community website in the UK”
Not sure what that means exactly, but I would opinion that most people only want to talk about their own divorce. Read More
- Can I interest you in a Pre-Nup?4th June 2007 - Pre-Nuptial Agreements
It is difficult to feel sorry for the rich but the Divorce regime in this country does appear biased against wealthy individuals divorcing their less wealthy spouses. Read More
- Divorce epidemic amongst over 50s13th May 2007 - Bastow Blogs
There is an article in The Daily Telegraph that outlines the increasing number of oldies that are getting divorced. Read More
- More pain ahead for ex-wives of bankrupts11th May 2007 - Bastow Blogs
There is a shocking report in The Daily Telegraph which states that an ex-wife of a bankrupt can have her settlement overturned, if her ex husband goes bankrupt within 5 years, even if the settlement was made after consideration of all the factors of the case and a Consent Order was drawn up in the normal way. Read More
- It’s a sad day for rich wives!14th April 2007 - Pre-Nuptial Agreements
A High Court judge has ruled that a divorcing wife of a millionaire cannot expect compensation beyond her needs and has awarded a clean break (final settlement) of £13 million. Read More
- Why is £20 million not enough?2nd March 2007 - Pre-Nuptial Agreements
The case of Charman returns to Court next week with John Charman arguing that £48 million is too much for his wife. Read More
- Should I move out of the house?24th February 2007 - Separation and Divorce
Separating couples, frequently can’t stand remaining under the same roof once the decision to part has been made but often this is the only practical option. Read More
- How much will my divorce cost?19th February 2007 - Separation and Divorce
The first question people ask is:
What am I entitled to?
The second question is:
How much will it cost? Read More
- How the 80/20 rule applies to your divorce11th February 2007 - Separation and Divorce
The 80/20 rule, or Pareto principle is an economic rule that 80% of resources are spent producing 20% of output. Read More
- What do you do when you find out he’s having an affair?23rd January 2007 - Separation and Divorce
The agony of discovering that your partner has been unfaithful leaves you with a big unanswered question. Read More
- Why do you want to divorce me?16th January 2007 - Separation and Divorce
There is a review of marriage and divorce in the Sunday Times.
It purports to analyse why people get divorced and what attributes they value in a marriage. Read More
- Happy with your Christmas presents?10th January 2007 - Separation and Divorce
Dissatisfaction with their Christmas dressing gown which is two sizes too small may make many women long for a more romantic relationship. Read More
- How much money will Heather Mills get?3rd November 2006 - Separation and Divorce
Ready to place your bets?
It looks like the fight of the century is going all the way to a final hearing. Read More
- Divorce and your credit score2nd November 2006 - Bastow Blogs
Where’s our money gone?
Once the decision to separate is made it is important to protect your credit score. Read More
- Heather Mills and Paul McCartney saga24th October 2006 - Separation and Divorce
Ketchup On The Carpet
The relentless fascination and obsessive coverage of the Heather Mills – Paul McCartney divorce saga continues. Read More
- Heather Mills and Paul McCartney23rd October 2006 - Separation and Divorce
Allegations, Allegations, Allegations
The front page of one of the newspapers I am least likely to buy ever drew me like a magnet today, which cost me 45 pence. Read More
- Can I stop my spouse divorcing me?11th October 2006 - Separation and Divorce
No!
How do I stop my spouse divorcing me?
There are very limited circumstances in which you can stop a divorce. Read More
- Can one lawyer represent both of us?9th October 2006 - Separation and Divorce
Friendly divorce?
Couples separating without acrimony, who have grown apart and no longer love each other and simply wish to go their separate ways, often ask whether one solicitor can represent them both. Read More
- Who gets to keep the dog?10th September 2006 - Separation and Divorce
We only stay together because of the dog!
This is not so uncommon, indeed there are plaques in many kitchens testifying such. Read More
- Divorce – Consent Order3rd August 2006 - Consent Orders
What Is A Consent Order?
A Consent Order is the legal document by which financial matters are finalised on divorce. Read More
- Typical Questions On Divorce1st August 2006 - Separation and Divorce
Should I Date When Trying To Get A Divorce?
No
Should I Smoke?
No
Should I Take Anti-Depressants? Read More
- How To Tell If Your Spouse Wants A Divorce12th July 2006 - Separation and Divorce
IF YOU ARE A MAN
A classic sign is INDIFFERENCE. Unfortunately, men often misinterpret this and think that their marriage has improved. Read More
- Divorce – Procedure4th July 2006 - Separation and Divorce
How Can I Get A Divorce?
Many people want to divorce because they simply don’t love each other any more. Read More
- Divorce – assets3rd July 2006 - Separation and Divorce
Arguing Over The Goods
Generally people fall into 3 groups:
THE GOOD
He/she can have everything.These people have either moved on emotionally or they simply don’t care about the T.V, often they are not even in the position to replace what they leave behind. Read More