Heads our family law team and an accredited specialist in family law, child law and mediation
PartnerLisa Girdwood
More than 30 years of experience in family law
PartnerShaun George
Highly experienced mediator and litigator with over 20 years experience
PartnerJacqueline Stroud
For separated couples divorcing in Scotland, we have a clear set of principles that we apply when advising on the financial implications of divorce. The same principles apply to couples dissolving a civil partnership.
Often the financial situation of a family is complex, but the basic principles of how we go about considering things still apply.
Figuring out the property acquired during the marriage or civil partnership is the first step. The goal is to ascertain the assets accrued from the income and efforts made during the marriage or civil partnership. In Scotland, we have a clear steer from our divorce laws on how inherited, gifted or pre-martial assets should be treated and that makes Scotland an attractive place for individuals to divorce.
"This firm has multiple capabilities that are readily available to its clients. Extremely professional front line and support staff. Friendly, empathetic and exceptionally knowledgeable."
Legal 500 UK 2021
"Every individual that I have engaged with in this firm have demonstrated a real in-depth knowledge and understanding of the many issues that in my case required to be dealt with."
Legal 500 UK 2021
"Professional, discreet, loyal, honest service by people who care about their clients."
Legal 500 UK 2021
Valuing those assets acquired during the marriage, including the family home, is the second step. We have strong working relationships with experts in-house and elsewhere so that clients receive the best possible advice on issues such as valuing businesses, property and pensions.
The third, and often more complicated, part of the process is determining how assets should be shared. This is where our detailed knowledge of the legal situation and the problem-solving approach clients receive from our divorce lawyers prove invaluable.
They treated me in a sensitive way during a very difficult and emotional time. They explained everything very clearly, laying out the options and advising on what they felt was best, without pressuring me.
Chambers UK 2021
Married couples also have a legal obligation to support one another. Our specialist family lawyers can advise on all issues surrounding maintenance payments, including child support and how costs such as school fees should be met.
Every situation is different. The more complex the situation, the more help and guidance you may require. We regularly advise clients based in Scotland but with assets abroad, on divorcing in Scotland.
We aim to help our clients make sound economic decisions both in terms of their own financial affairs and the cost of the advice they require. We provide guidance on cost from the outset. We encourage our clients to speak to us openly about costs and arrangements for payment.
Finances on divorce key highlights
- Obtaining advice following separation helps clients to understand how best to resolve matters in a constructive way.
- Shaun George regularly acts in multi-jurisdictional matters pertaining to financial provision and forum shopping.
- One of the largest practices in Scotland looking after private individuals, we advise on all matters related to the international aspects of our clients' lives - find out more.
- Find out more on our dedicated family law FAQ page.
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Get in touch with a member of our Family law team
Our divorce lawyers, family solicitors and mediators are personable and approachable. Our objective is to resolve matters for you as efficiently as possible, so that we can get the best outcome for you and your family.
