7 Practical Points for the Client Before Giving Notice of Divorce
Gather and preserve financial documents
Collect and securely store copies of all accessible financial records—bank statements, mortgage and credit card statements, tax returns, Companies House filings, pension details, property documents, insurance schedules, investment statements, trust and loan details, school fee records, membership info, and major household expenses. The goal is to keep information that might be lost later.
Prepare a lifestyle and expenditure schedule
Document monthly spending realistically and with evidence from bank/card statements: household costs, personal care, vehicle expenses, staff or domestic help, holidays, children’s fees and activities, medical costs, entertainment, and social expenses. This will support claims for maintenance.
Identify all assets
Create an asset schedule even with limited information, covering properties, business interests, shares, accounts, pensions, luxury items, trust interests, and any assets held via companies or nominees.
Don’t focus on the affair unless financially relevant
Only pursue issues related to the affair if there are significant gifts, payments, asset transfers, or dissipation of funds. Otherwise, concentrate on tracing assets and maintaining evidence of marital lifestyle.
Watch for signs of asset manipulation
Note warning signs such as sudden transfers, new loans, company restructures, transfers to family/trusts/offshore, undervalue sales, or abrupt income reduction. Document suspicious transactions and consider protective legal action if needed.
Plan for housing, income, and children
Prepare practical plans for living arrangements, bill payments, schooling, access to funds, interim maintenance, and responsibility for key expenses before announcing separation. If there is a joint bank account withdraw 50% for legal fees.
Stay composed and safeguard your position
Avoid emptying accounts, hiding assets, intercepting communications, taking documents not yours, making threats, or discussing the situation on social media. Keep a private record of events and ensure secure access to your own funds and documents, prioritizing credibility and consistency.
Then call Z>UK DIVORCE.
