Divorces Involving High Value And Complex Assets

We advised a client in complex financial remedy proceedings involving a substantial residential and commercial property portfolio. The case required multiple red book valuations, capital gains tax advice from a jointly appointed accountant, and careful planning around the tax‑efficient transfer and sale of assets.

The matter was further complicated by numerous trading businesses operating from some of the properties, both personally and through corporate structures. In total, the case involved approximately 10–15 limited companies and more than 14 property interests, with forensic accountancy input where required.

Outcome: The case concluded by agreement at FDR, avoiding the cost, delay and risk of a final hearing.

We acted for a client in financial remedy proceedings involving disputed property in Ukraine. The wife denied ownership, claiming the property had no value and belonged to a third party. We worked with Ukrainian intermediaries and undertook a detailed analysis of financial disclosure to challenge these assertions.

By evidencing control, use and financial involvement, we established beneficial ownership and demonstrated inconsistencies in the wife’s position. This ensured the property could not be excluded from the matrimonial pot.

Outcome: The court accepted our arguments, included the property at its full value, and secured a fairer settlement for our client.

We represented a client with domestic and international business interests operating in a highly volatile market. Forensic valuation evidence fluctuated significantly, creating uncertainty around the true value of the assets.

We challenged the single joint expert’s evidence and successfully obtained permission to instruct our own accountant under a Daniels v Walker application. This produced clearer and more reliable valuation evidence and exposed substantial overstatement in the original figures.

Outcome: Valuations were reduced by tens of millions of pounds, enabling settlement after a failed FDR but before a final hearing.

We acted for a client with a significant deferred interest following a business exit, with much of the value tied up in loan notes and future consideration. The case also involved international property and complex arguments around post‑matrimonial endeavour.

We advised on the risk, timing and uncertainty of asset realisation and negotiated a settlement that reflected the differing nature of the assets and likely timescales for receipt.

Outcome: A balanced settlement was achieved, fairly accounting for risk, value and future realisation without the need for contested litigation.

We represented a wife in proceedings involving multiple companies, properties and more than 15 trusts holding multi-million-pound investments across numerous jurisdictions. Disputes arose over non‑matrimonial property, earning capacity and the transfer of shares during proceedings.

We instructed forensic experts and successfully argued for shares transferred out of the estate to be added back, alongside securing findings on key asset treatment issues.

Outcome: The court ruled in our client’s favour on major asset issues, resulting in a significantly improved settlement.

We represented a landowner whose divorce involved a family farm passed down through generations. The estate included interconnected businesses such as a livery yard and holiday cottages, all central to the farming operation.

We successfully argued that the farm was non‑matrimonial property. Careful structuring of the settlement ensured succession planning was protected while meeting the other party’s housing and financial needs.

Outcome: The core estate remained intact, family businesses were preserved, and a fair settlement was reached without prolonged dispute.