Financial Settlement

Divorce Financial Settlement Solicitors

Reaching a financial settlement is one of the most important and often most complex aspects of any divorce or separation. Decisions made at this stage will have a lasting impact on your financial security, which is why having expert legal guidance is essential. At Hi Solicitors, our specialist family law solicitors in Bolton have extensive experience advising clients on all aspects of matrimonial finances, from straightforward asset divisions to complex cases involving businesses, multiple properties, and substantial pension provisions.

How We Can Help

Wherever possible, we encourage clients to resolve financial matters by agreement, without the need for court proceedings. A negotiated settlement is almost always preferable — it is faster, less costly, and less stressful than litigation, and gives both parties greater control over the outcome. Any agreement reached can be made legally binding by way of a consent order, which our team will draft and submit to the court for approval. Where direct negotiation is not possible, we can also assist with mediation and collaborative law as effective alternatives to court.

Where court proceedings become necessary, our solicitors will represent you robustly throughout. The family court will consider a broad range of factors under Section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, including the financial needs and resources of each party, earning capacity, the length of the marriage, contributions to the family, the standard of living enjoyed during the marriage, and the value of any pension provision. In cases involving complex assets, business interests, or significant pension arrangements, we work alongside specialist financial experts to ensure everything is properly valued and accounted for. Where children are involved, our child arrangement solicitors can assist alongside your financial settlement case to ensure all aspects of your family’s situation are addressed together.

Why Choose Hi Solicitors?

At Hi Solicitors, we are committed to guiding you through this process with clarity, transparency, and genuine care. We will advise you on the timing of each step, ensure your financial position is accurately presented, and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your future. You can read what our clients have said about working with us on our testimonials page, or meet our team to find out more about the solicitors who will be handling your case.

Contact Hi Solicitors today on 01204 371 414 or book your free initial consultation to speak with one of our specialist divorce financial settlement solicitors in Bolton.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to go to court to reach a financial settlement? No. Many couples resolve financial matters through negotiation or mediation without ever going to court. We always explore non-court options first. If an agreement cannot be reached, we will represent you in proceedings to ensure a fair outcome.

How is a financial settlement calculated? There is no fixed formula. The court considers a wide range of factors under Section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, including each party’s financial needs and resources, earning capacity, the length of the marriage, contributions to the family, and the welfare of any children.

Are assets always split 50/50? No. While equality is often the starting point, the court can depart from a 50/50 split based on the circumstances — including the needs of children, differences in earning capacity, pre-marital assets, and the length of the marriage.

What is a consent order and do I need one? A consent order is a legally binding court order recording the financial agreement between divorcing parties. Without one, any agreement is unenforceable and either party could make future financial claims. We strongly recommend obtaining a consent order to provide certainty and finality.

How long does a financial settlement take? Where both parties cooperate, a settlement can be concluded in around six months. Where court proceedings are necessary, the process can take considerably longer — in complex cases, up to two years or more.

Does the length of the marriage affect the settlement? Yes. Longer marriages tend to result in a more equal division of assets due to greater financial interdependence. Shorter marriages may place greater emphasis on pre-marital assets, though the presence of dependent children can affect this regardless of marriage length.

What if my spouse hides assets? Full financial disclosure is a legal requirement. If assets are being hidden or dissipated, court orders can be obtained to compel disclosure or freeze assets. If you have concerns, seek legal advice immediately — our solicitors can advise on the steps available to protect your position.

Can I claim a share of my spouse’s pension? Yes. Pensions are taken into account as part of the overall financial settlement and can be significant, particularly in longer marriages. Options include pension sharing orders, pension offsetting, and pension attachment orders. We will advise on the most appropriate approach for your circumstances.