Divorce settlement guide

[ChrisArnold]

Hi there,

We have decided to finish our relationship within year 1 of marriage - and at this stage, neither of us has initiated the divorce conversation. During this time, we have carried on living independently in different cities and have not shared any financial commitments. We both have jobs and did not need to ask for any help from each other. However, I am significantly more wealthy than my partner. I wonder what should i be expect to pay as settlement if i must? please let me know what should I prepare myself for, as per British law?

You need to go see a solicitor.

No one can advise you on that limited information.

A very short lived marriage. You cannot divorce before 1 year is up, but generally you would take out of the marriage what you put in. Unless the less wealthy person has lost out by marrying. That's the general rule. Don't bother with a solicitor unless your stbex is being difficult. Do it yourself, much pleasanter and cheaper.

Also, no such thing as British law.

English (inc. Wales), Scottish, or Northern Irish. Very different.

Thanks all for your replies and suggesting to approach a solicitor. I will of course. My primary concern is that I have purchased a flat (in my name) after the marriage, exclusively using the funds from my savings and I am the only one who pays the mortgage. I wonder if you have any ideas if my soon-to-be-ex can claim any part of that. She already has got a flat in her city where she lives (and manages on her own), which she purchased prior to the marriage.

Thanks, and i promise i wont ask anymore questions here and approach a solicitor.

Nobody minds you asking questions, OP, but sometimes questions are unanswerable on this forum.

I would never answer a client that question without a full history and financial information. Because it just isn't that straightforward.

Refer to previous response.