A Pension is often the largest or second largest capital asset in a marriage or civil partnership. As such it is important that pensions are considered in the financial settlement if a couple decide to divorce or dissolve their civil partnership.

Pensions can be complex and confusing, but the details need to be addressed carefully by one of our specialist Lawyers. Frequently, one person has a substantial pension and the other might have none or a very limited pension provision because, for example, they have given up their job to look after the children. We will advise you on the need to consider if that pension should be shared or if you should receive more of some other asset, such as the home instead.

There is no automatic entitlement to a spouse’s pension but the Court will look at all the facts and figures in each case. Divorce Courts can and do often order a pension to be shared when considering financial arrangements during their divorce. Other options available include offsetting which is where the pension fund value is offset against other matrimonial assets, such as the house. Our specialist Lawyers can advise you on appropriate action and steps required in asserting your rights in respect of pensions issues.