Divorce/separation
Pensions on divorce: offsetting
Offsetting is the most common option used when dealing with pensions on divorce since it allows a completely clean break between the divorcing parties. Under this method the transfer value of the pension is included with the value of all other matrimonial assets. The assets are then divided between the 2 parties so that the scheme member…
Read MorePensions and divorce: what are the options?
For many divorcing couples the pension may be the second biggest asset after the matrimonial home. The Pensions Act 1995 first introduced the requirement to take pensions into account on divorce under English Law. This requirement had been in place in Scotland since The Family Law (Scotland) Act 1985. A pension is valued using the…
Read MoreCohabitation agreements
The use of cohabitation agreements is currently a hot topic of discussion with the rights of those who cohabit and who are either not married or not in a civil partnership, very much in the news. It is estimated that almost six million couples are in cohabiting relationships in England and Wales. Yet despite the…
Read MoreAre you a “Common Law Wife?”
It is a widely held belief among women that if they are cohabiting but not married that they will have the same rights as a spouse should they and their partner later separate. However, this is a myth. I’m going to say that again just to make sure you heard correctly: this is a myth.…
Read MoreDo women need different financial advice to men?
If you have a browse round my website you’ll see that I’m a female IFA specialising in independent financial advice to women. This naturally raises the question “Do women need different advice to men?” The answer of course is “No”. Financial advice is financial advice regardless of whether you are male or female. But what…
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