When a civil partnership breaks down, resolving financial arrangements can be complex, particularly where significant assets, health concerns and periods of separation are involved. In this case, Tees advised *Jason following the instigation of dissolution proceedings by his civil partner, *Natasha, helping him understand his financial position, protect his long-term security, and consider how best to safeguard both parties’ interests as the relationship evolved towards reconciliation.
For context
Tees were instructed by Jason in connection with the dissolution of his civil partnership, which was instigated by his civil partner, Natasha, and the resolution of their financial claims arising from the dissolution.
Jason and Natasha had decided to enter into a civil partnership largely to ensure they would benefit from the tax advantages of formalising their relationship without wanting to enter into marriage.
The fact that they had entered into a civil partnership rather than a marriage did not change the fact that, if the relationship were to break down and dissolution proceedings were to be instigated, each of them would have the same financial claims against one another as they would have had they been spouses.
Although Jason and Natasha had started their relationship in the late 1990s, there had been a period of some six years where they had been living separately before they reconciled and resumed their relationship before entering into the civil partnership.
Jason had developed severe health issues which meant that he was no longer able to work and he was keen to ensure he retained his home and that he would be securely housed going forwards. Whereas Natasha was living in one of the properties they had purchased as an investment property.
What happened next
After some initial discussions between the parties as to how they might divide their assets upon the dissolution of their civil partnership, Jason and Natasha decided they would reconcile.
Tees advised Jason of the importance that the dissolution proceedings were withdrawn to ensure that the dissolution did not progress to a final order if the parties were in fact reconciling.
Tees also advised that it would be prudent to consider entering into a post-civil partnership agreement with Natasha so that, in the hopefully unlikely event that the relationship were to break down in future, there would be a framework for how their finances would be divided on dissolution to avoid each of them incurring significant legal costs in a protracted dispute.
Why Tees made a difference
- Clear, timely advice at a critical stage, helping Jason understand the implications of reconciliation during ongoing dissolution proceedings
- Practical guidance on procedure, including the importance of withdrawing proceedings to avoid an unintended final order
- Forward-looking approach, advising on the benefits of a post-civil partnership agreement to provide future protection
- Risk reduction, helping to avoid potential future disputes and costly litigation if the relationship were to break down again
- Tailored, client-focused support, balancing immediate concerns with long-term financial security and certainty
Giving you the full picture
Whether you are considering separation, in the process of dissolving a civil partnership, or exploring reconciliation and want to protect your future position, early legal advice can make a significant difference. At Tees, our specialist family law team provides clear, practical guidance tailored to your circumstances, helping you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary cost or conflict.
If you need advice on civil partnership dissolution or protecting your financial future, get in touch with Tees today to speak to one of our family law experts.
*Names have been changed to protect the privacy of those involved.
