My SIL has just come out of an emotionally abusive relationship. Over the past 2 years her ex-partner has manipulated her into selling her house (135k) which he then persuaded her to use to fund a start up business and to fund his lifestyle (rent free, holidays to USA etc). After the money ran out they jointly took on debt (approx 25k) to fund another business which stands to be a profitable enterprise. SIL recently found out that her ex has been cheating on her with a 17 year old. She says that her ex is a pathological liar and prone to gaslighting. At the moment her ex is maintaining that he has legal rights to half of the business despite his only contribution being the joint debt. We are worried he will drain cash from the business and do a runner. Does anyone know if he has a legal claim? And/or is there any possibility that he could be prosecuted? My SIL gave him the money willingly but only as part of the emotionally manipulative relationship. We know she is unlikely to get any money back but we would ideally like her to have sole business rights without having to buy him out. Any advice gratefully received.