Expert Financial Settlement Solicitors in Plymouth

One of the biggest concerns when a relationship breaks down is deciding how assets, savings, property, pensions and debts should be divided. Whether you are divorcing, dissolving a civil partnership, or separating after a long-term relationship, reaching a fair financial settlement can be complex.

At Gard & Co Solicitors, our experienced family law team provides practical, straightforward advice to help you secure a financial settlement that protects your future and the wellbeing of your family.

We understand that every family is different. There is no single formula for dividing assets and no two cases are exactly alike. We will guide you through the process, explain your options clearly, and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

What Is a Financial Settlement?

A financial settlement (sometimes referred to as a financial remedy) is the process of resolving financial matters following a divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership.

A settlement may deal with:

• The family home and other property
• Savings and investments
• Pensions
• Business interests
• Income and earning capacity
• Maintenance payments
• Debts and liabilities

The aim is to reach a fair outcome based on the specific circumstances of the individuals involved.

Do I Automatically Get Half?

One of the most common questions we hear is:

“Don’t I just get 50%?”

Although an equal division of assets may be the starting point in some cases, there is no automatic rule that everything must be split equally.

The Court has wide discretion and will consider the individual circumstances of each family before determining what is fair. In some cases a 50/50 division may be appropriate. In others, a different outcome may be needed to meet the needs of the parties and any children.

How Is a Financial Settlement Decided?

When considering a financial settlement, the Court must take account of the factors contained within Section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973.

These include:

• The welfare and needs of any children
• Each person’s income and earning capacity
• Property, savings, pensions and other financial resources
• Future financial needs and obligations
• The standard of living enjoyed during the marriage
• The age of the parties and the length of the marriage
• Contributions made by each party, including caring for children and running the home
• Any significant disadvantage suffered by either party as a result of the marriage or its breakdown

The needs of any children are a primary consideration and can have a significant impact on the outcome.

Can We Reach an Agreement Without Going to Court?

In many cases, yes.

Negotiating an agreement is often faster, less stressful and considerably less expensive than court proceedings. Our family law solicitors will always explore opportunities to resolve matters through negotiation wherever possible.

To achieve a fair settlement, both parties must provide full and honest financial disclosure. This allows informed discussions to take place and helps both sides understand the complete financial picture.

Where an agreement is reached, it should usually be recorded in a legally binding Consent Order and approved by the Court. This is important because informal agreements may not provide long-term protection or finality.

What Happens If We Cannot Agree?

Unfortunately, some disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation alone.

This is not unusual. Sometimes the disagreement relates to a single issue, such as the family home or pensions. In other cases, there may be significant differences regarding what each person believes is fair.

If an agreement cannot be reached, an application can be made to the Court for a Financial Remedy Order.

While court proceedings can seem daunting, our experienced family solicitors will support you throughout the process. We will:

• Explain each stage of the proceedings
• Prepare all necessary paperwork
• Gather and present evidence
• Negotiate on your behalf where appropriate
• Represent your interests throughout the case

We always strive to resolve disputes without litigation where possible. However, we will not hesitate to recommend court action when it is necessary to protect your position or achieve a fair outcome.

How Our Family Law Solicitors Can Help

Our dedicated family law team provides clear, practical advice at every stage of the financial settlement process.

We can assist with:

• Divorce financial settlements
• Financial remedy applications
• Consent Orders
• Pension sharing arrangements
• Property adjustment orders
• Spousal maintenance
• Child-related financial issues
• Negotiated settlements
• Court proceedings

We provide constructive and realistic advice about both the strengths and weaknesses of your case, helping you make informed decisions throughout.

Our goal is to achieve the best possible settlement for you and your family while minimising conflict and unnecessary expense.

Why Choose Gard & Co Solicitors?

Choosing the right solicitor can make a significant difference to both the outcome of your case and your experience throughout the process.

Clients choose Gard & Co because we:

• Provide practical, straightforward legal advice
• Take a proactive and supportive approach
• Focus on achieving constructive resolutions where possible
• Have extensive experience in family law matters
• Offer clear guidance throughout the process
• Are committed to securing the best outcome for our clients

Our family law team understands the emotional and financial pressures that accompany relationship breakdowns, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Speak to a Financial Settlement Solicitor in Plymouth

If you need advice about a financial settlement following divorce or separation, our experienced family law team is here to help.

Contact  Claire, Sean or Charlotte on Plymouth 01752 668246 or send an email by clicking here.