I’m in a Celebrity Divorce: Get me out of here…
The news that Ant McPartlin (of ‘Ant and Dec’ fame) is divorcing is plastered across the popular press, with a number of pictures of the poor guy looking very miserable indeed.
Under the headline “Ant to pay wife £31m”, The Sun states that “Ant is prepared to part with half his fortune to end the 11-year marriage amicably”.
Despite this appearing to be agreed, and indeed made public, The Daily Star front page says “Ant faces £60m divorce battle”, whilst the Daily Express says “Ant’s agony as divorce battle looms”. Battle, what battle?
As there has been no contested divorce financial hearing, The Sun appears to be the most accurate report, and indicates an entirely predictable, and sensible, arrangement. In many marriages the financial arrangements are agreed between the people involved, and – particularly where the figures are substantial – an equal division is the most common basis for the settlement.
The detail of such settlements is generally far more complex, involving issues of property, pensions, assets of various kinds, and meeting income and capital needs for both husband and wife, as well as considering the tax implications that arise. No doubt there are helpful solicitors and accountants in the background, addressing those issues, as we so often do.
Half of £62m will, obviously, give Lis McPartlin enough to live on. Where a couple’s assets are rather less extensive the question of division can be more rather than less complicated. A couple with a mortgaged house and two children to provide for may barely be able to manage on the money they have whilst they are living together: an equal division on divorce almost certainly won’t work to provide a home for their children. These cases benefit significantly from legal advice that helps to avoid the delay and expense of court proceedings.
The family team at GA Solicitors are members of Resolution and can also offer guidance on collaborative law, providing an alternative to court and a chance to achieve an amicable result for all concerned.
If you are facing a relationship breakup or considering divorce, then getting advice early on to understand your options is vital and save you a lot of stress, worry and cost in the future.
Call the family department today on 01752 203500 or email me via ian.downing@GAsolicitors.com.
Ian Downing, divorce solicitor Plymouth