Natalie Wiles
As we journey through life, the values and needs that once defined us inevitably shift and nowhere is this tension felt more acutely than in our closest relationships. Mid-life has long been recognised as a period of profound personal re-evaluation - it is perhaps unsurprising then, that relationship breakdown emerges as one of the most significant - and most common outcomes of this introspective crossroads, driven, often, by a quiet accumulation of unmet needs, changed perspectives and diverging paths.
The practical landscape of mid life shifts considerably too. As children grow up and leave the family home and the financial pressures that once dominated daily life begin to ease, a new sense of freedom starts to emerge.
Yet this newfound space, rather than bringing couples closer, can just as easily expose the distance that has quietly grown between them. Add to this, the weight of various mid life health challenges and the cracks in a relationship's foundation can quickly become impossible to paper over.
I set out below some key points that may be of particular relevance to those considering separation in mid life.
The Court does not distinguish between contributions towards home life such as caring for any children of the relationship and financial contributions. They are viewed as equal.
Sharing of matrimonial assets is the starting principle but if needs cannot be met fairly by sharing of assets then the Court can depart from equality. This will be down to individual assessment in each case.
Pensions are incredibly important to consider. They are often the biggest asset in a case and are the most overlooked. At mid life a difference in pension provision can have huge impact upon income in retirement which can create unfairness.
Communication is extremely important and where matters can be agreed amicably, this is encouraged. The process does not have to include the Courts and there are various tools to assist such as mediation.
Finally, obtain legal advice early so that conversations about how to move forward can progress in a structured way. Talking it through can really help to focus on the issues and set out a roadmap to resolution.
For more information or to book a Preliminary Advice Meeting, please visit here.