Separation Agreement Solicitors London

Separation Agreements

Often, for religious reasons or simply because a married couple do not want to immediately divorce or would rather do so on the basis of 2 years separation, they enter into a separation agreement.

The document will set out their intention to divorce on the expiry of the 2 year period and either can then petition accordingly, without having to place blame and with the others clear consent.

The payment of maintenance can be agreed and set out in respect of both a spouse and the children.

If you need legal advice on the law and legal issues regarding separation or have decided to separate and think you need a separation agreement, get in touch for a free initial discussion.

What to include in a Separation Agreement?

Typical issues to cover and include in a separation agreement include :-

• Formal agreement to separate and intention to divorce in the future;
• Maintenance and other financial issues;
• Care of the children;
• Possible transfer of property and occupation of the matrimonial home;
• Assignment of life policies;
• Closure or transfer of joint bank accounts;
• Payment of liabilities – who shall pay the mortgage and other such matters such as repair can also be covered in detail;

A separation agreement is a contract

The general principles of contract law apply to these agreements with some additions including that it is paramount for both parties to seek independent legal advice, this will work towards the enforceability of the agreement in the event of dispute later as it will show they both had a full understanding of the terms and what they were entering into, having been advised as to their rights and obligations.

This is also a clear indication that there was no coercion and the agreement was not entered into under duress.

Independent advice will also seek to ensure no argument as to mistake or fraud can be brought later.

Why bother with a separation agreement?

• Having an agreement in place generally :-
• results in a better divorce process and keeps divorce costs  to a minimum;
• keeps the relationship flexible;
• provides certainty and practical details;
• the separation agreement, so long as it is working, can be used in subsequent divorce proceedings to settle matrimonial finances by simply being converted into a consent order.

How much does a Separation Agreement cost?

Typically, a separation agreement will cost starting from £750.00 plus vat. We always understand that clients want and need to understand what legal advice costs.

However, every agreement is different, much depends on what is agreed in advance (because otherwise an agreement can go backwards and forwards between lawyers which will increase legal costs significantly it’s essential that you get the right advice.

Getting things wrong can cost a lot more. Our commitment is always to keep costs of separation agreements as low as we can, adopting a practical approach and advice given by our experienced lawyers which also generally saves time and money.

Get in touch if you need advice on any aspect of separating from your husband or wife or specifically legal advice or drafting of a separation agreement.