ExPartner demanding half busines and conflicting solicitors views!

[sneezecakesmum]

My BIL has just split up from his exP of 20 years. He has a small business which contributed to the family finances, but his ExP (never married) has never contibuted financially or physically - his Mother gave him the money for tools.

They have separated (not amicable) and her solicitor says she is entitled to half the proceeds of the sale of the business as they were together when it was set up 15 years ago.

My BILs solicitor says as she didnt contribute she is probably entitled to nothing? He will be looking into the legality over this week. Is there a legal precedent re division of businesses if unmarried?

Is this a case of a grey area or has BILs solicitor not looked in the right place. Or has BIL got the wrong end of the stick - SO much information to take in for him!!

.. and partic since BIL would be struggling to get a job as well after any sale, I would guess disposal is Hans Christian Anderson stuff, he should not worry

Thank you cat. sadly he does worry and is very intimidated. He just told us she was outside the gates of his workshop looking over the fence cos he sent her an email about the money she stole from his private bank ac (£2400ish) and the police are on to it. Not nice if you are there alone.

I would personally advise any woman in a long term relationship with children to marry to secure their financial future, but must confess I'm very glad he didn't!