Pensions & Divorce

Since 2000, pensions have played an important part in divorce. A court can now order that a pension fund, belonging to one spouse, is to be shared with the non-pension member spouse. This can include sharing the pension so each spouse has equality of income in retirement or equality of pension provision. As identified by the number of negligence cases seen by the SRA about pensions in divorce, very serious consequences can arise if this is not dealt with properly.

Our divorce solicitors are very experienced in advising on pension issues such as:

• Final salary – where the face value is not always as its appears
• Money purchase – where depending on the parties ages, cash could be extracted subject to tax
• SIPP funds – where caution must be taken regarding underlying assets
• State pensions – where rules have recently changed

We regularly represent police officers, teachers and members of the NHS, whose pensions can be complex and extremely valuable assets. If you work in the public sector, specialist knowledge about your pension schemes is essential in divorce.

How our  solicitors can help you:

• Assist you at an early stage with practical advice concerning pensions in divorce
• Identify the issues you are likely to face regarding pensions
• Refer you to specialist experts for advice, should that be necessary
• Ensure any agreement reached is full and final to avoid risks and uncertainty in the future

Next Steps

Contact our family team for an initial consultation on 01732 747900 or [email protected]