Why clients choose us

• Clarity from day one: What you can expect, likely ranges, and the steps to get there.

• Settle first, litigate if needed: Mediation/negotiation where possible; robust advocacy if court is required.

• Complex assets handled: Mortgages, buy-to-lets, second homes, companies and overseas property.

• Transparent fees: Fixed-fee stages where suitable and regular cost updates.

What we resolve

• Family home: sale, transfer, buy-out or deferred sale (e.g., Mesher/Martin orders)

• Other property: buy-to-let, holiday homes, shared ownership, overseas assets

• Mortgages & equity: remortgaging, affordability, charge-backs and equity releases

• Deposits & family loans: documenting and repaying soft/hard loans

• Related finances: pensions, savings/investments, debts and clean-break provisions

How courts approach fairness (not “automatic 50/50”)

If agreement isn’t reached, judges decide using Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 s.25 factors and the principles of needs, sharing and (rarely) compensation. Housing needs—especially where children live—are central. “Non-matrimonial” assets (e.g., pre-owned or inherited property) may be treated differently, but can still be used to meet needs.

Options for the family home

• Sell & divide: Realise equity now and rehouse both parties.

• Transfer with buy-out: One party keeps the home and compensates the other via cash or other assets.

• Deferred sale (Mesher/Martin): Sale postponed (often until a child finishes education), with clear triggers and upkeep obligations.

• Continue jointly (short term): Structured plan with costs, repairs and exit set out to avoid disputes.

We’ll model affordability, risks and practicalities for each route.

The process (at a glance)

1. Initial advice
   Free 20-minute call or £250 fixed-fee consult to map goals, risks and likely outcomes.

2. Disclosure & valuation
   Exchange Form E/financial info; obtain property valuations, mortgage capacity, and (where relevant) rental yields.

3. Negotiation/mediation
   Solicitor-led talks, mediation or Private FDR to converge on a fair solution.

4. Consent Order & D81
   We draft the agreement and file it for court approval so terms are legally binding.

5. Implementation
   Land Registry (e.g., TR1), mortgage changes, payments/charge-backs, and practical move plans.

Children & housing

Arrangements should minimise disruption for children. Courts prioritise stable housing near schools/support networks. We align Child Arrangements with your property plan (handovers, holidays, travel permissions).

Safeguards & interim protections

• Home Rights (if the property is in one name) to protect occupation pending outcome.

• Occupation/Non-Molestation Orders where safety or access to the home is in issue.

• Undertakings for practical ground rules while negotiating.

Tax & practicalities

Property outcomes can involve CGT/SDLT, early-repayment charges, maintenance costs and insurance. We’ll flag issues and coordinate with your broker and tax adviser so you plan on net, not gross, figures.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying on a handshake deal: Without a Consent Order, claims can remain open.

• Skipping proper valuations: Leads to uneven equity splits or unworkable buy-outs.

• Ignoring pensions/debts: Property is only part of the picture; settlements must balance everything.

• Over-optimistic affordability: Lenders, rates and maintenance costs matter—stress-test the plan.

• Vague deferred-sale terms: Always set clear triggers, repairs, insurance and sale mechanics.

Fees & ways to start

• Fixed-fee initial consultation: £250 (incl. VAT) with a specialist solicitor

• Free 20-minute call: triage and next steps

• Flexible pricing thereafter: fixed-fee stages where suitable or agreed hourly rates with clear estimates

Book a consultation · +44 (0)330 053 3342