A Supreme Court ruling on whether substantial assets transferred between spouses during marriage should be divided equally on divorce – has reignited the importance of Pre-nups.

The ‘big money case’ saw divorcee Anna Standish lose her legal case to keep almost £80 million which her affluent banker husband had given her in 2017 to put in offshore trusts for their children and to avoid inheritance tax.

When their marriage fell apart in 2020, the money was still in her name, sparking a bitter, prolonged case which played out in the highest courts in the land.

The outcome is a reminder of the importance of Pre-nups for all couples tying the knot, especially for nigh-net-worth individuals and families involved in estate and inheritance planning.

Irrespective of a couple’s financial status, a Pre-nup helps couples to avoid  the potential distress, acrimony, and expense of disentangling their finances if they split up.

How to obtain a Pre-nup

To enter into an agreement properly, the couple each need to obtain independent legal advice on the agreement

Both must also have disclosed their assets to each other – and the terms of the agreement must produce a result that is fair and reasonable and meets needs

The agreement should be negotiated and signed at least 28 days before the wedding. This allows both to obtain advice, have time to consider it, and make an informed decision on signing it

Do courts uphold Pre-nups?

Increasingly courts are upholding pre-nups on divorce if they  are satisfied that the agreement was entered into freely, without undue pressure  and with the benefit of full financial information and independent legal advice.

As the law stands, a court still needs to approve the settlement at the point of divorce, ensuring the agreement meets the needs of both parties. If it does not, a different order can be made but this is likely still to take the terms of the Pre-nup into account to some extent.

Are Pre-nups suitable for second marriages?

Yes, the contracts can work particularly well for coupes marrying for the second time where a husband or wife seeks to retain their own wealth if they separate. They can also protect the interests of children from previous relationships.

Taking the time to draw up a Pre-nup before marriage can avoid financial and emotional heartache in a marriage breakdown. Jones Myers family law specialists are highly experienced in advising on Pre-nups and Post-nups.

For queries on any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked 5^th in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2025.

Image by Pars Sahin, Unsplash 

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Jones Myers has appointed Sarah Barr-Young, a family lawyer with extensive expertise, to head the firm’s Financial Remedies Department in Harrogate.

Highly experienced in complex, high net worth financial disputes, Sarah’s reputation in business property portfolios, pensions on divorce and resolving disputes out of court through negotiation is widely recognised.

A named Legal 500 ‘Key’ Lawyer and Chambers ‘Notable Practitioner’, Sarah is valued by clients as a knowledgeable, ‘no nonsense’ strategist who is patient and empathetic.

Sarah is delighted to be back in Harrogate where she was born and attended junior school. She said:  “I am a long-standing admirer of Jones Myers’ standing for delivering excellence in client care and legal services of the highest calibre and regard this opportunity as a real honour.

“It is also a privilege to be taking over from Neil Dring, a highly dedicated and compassionate family lawyer. I had the pleasure of previously working with Neil who sadly passed away earlier this year following an illness.”

Richard Peaker, Jones Myers Managing Partner, said: “Sarah’s first-class reputation in divorce and financial remedies is widely renowned and respected and she is a great asset to our award-winning team.

“We wish Sarah continued success in her career as a key member of our committed lawyers who are recognised as leaders in their field.”         

Sarah’s appointment comes in a formative year for Jones Myers, which has also doubled the size of the York city centre team with a series of new appointments.

With headquarters in Leeds, the firm, which has its own in-house counsel, has retained its top tier rankings in the Legal 500 and Chambers UK guides for over three decades.

Jones Myers is also ranked in the top five per cent of UK law practices which deliver family law services by Review Solicitors, an independent legal review site. Outperforming its peers nationwide, clients award the practice a consistent ‘Excellent’ rating. 

For queries on any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at Leeds 0113 246 0055, Harrogate 01423 276104, or York 01904 202550. Visit www.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet @helpwithdivorce

Jones Myers blog is ranked in the UK’s Best 25 family law blogs and websites to follow in 2025.

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A case handled by Jones Myers has helped five Supreme Court judges to rule that a divorced surveyor should not have to increase payments to his former wife who mishandled her finances after they broke up.

The case of Graham and Maria Mills, who divorced in 2002 after a 15-year marriage, has put the spotlight on the ‘meal ticket for life’ scenario in which a wife receives maintenance in her life time.The highest court in the land rejected the Court of Appeal’s decision to back Mrs Mills’ request to increase monthly payments from £1,100 to £1,441 because she fell into debt after making bad property investments with a £230k settlement from Mr Mills when they divorced.

The Supreme Court judges were in no doubt that Mr Mills should not have to pay an additional amount due to his ex-wife’s poor financial management – and they restored the existing periodical monthly payments of £1,100.

Previous case outcomes which the judged drew on before reaching their decision included North v North in 2007 when Jones Myers successfully represented a husband who appealed against his ex-wife receiving maintenance payments following the expiry of over 20 years since separation and partly due to bad investments she had made.

Jones Myers founder, Peter Jones, said: “We can conclude from the Mills V Mills decision that the Supreme Court will not support a party seeking an increase in maintenance to bail out their financial difficulties which have been caused by their own failings.

“However, the principle of an ex-spouse receiving lifetime maintenance in certain limited situations, remains intact.

“Coupled with the substantial financial costs of this prolonged and very public dispute are the high emotional costs and stress which will undoubtedly have taken its toll on both parties. In retrospect, had they given more careful consideration of the possible repercussions, it may have resulted in both parties behaving differently.”

For more information about divorce and finances, family or children law or Contentious Trusts and Estates, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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As an in-house barrister at Jones Myers, what type of cases do you work on?

Some of my cases involve complex financial matters where there are trusts and offshore structures – I worked offshore in Jersey before moving to Jones Myers. Our firm also has extensive expertise in Children Law matters and I represent and assist parents with child arrangement orders and relocation cases.How does your unique role as ‘in house’ counsel add value to Jones Myers’ services?

It enables us to offer a more ‘seamless’ and effective service. Being in house means I can meet clients with our lawyers at the outset of cases, helping them to identify the best strategies for achieving a good financial outcome for them right from the start. I also hold round table meetings with clients over vital issues such as contact with children.

Our clients say that, having met and worked with before a court hearing, helps to reassure them at the hearing which can be a stressful and anxious time for them.

Are you seeing any particular trends emerging?

Yes, in particular we’re experiencing an increase in shared care arrangements. Whereas historically children spent more time with their mum and saw their dad every other weekend, more fathers now have shared care which is positive for the child’s well-being. Our ethos at Jones Myers is that children’s interests should always be put first.

We’re also seeing courts becoming more cautious in awarding spousal maintenance payments for life. Recent rulings have prompted family lawyers to question if the so-called ‘meal ticket for life’ for maintenance payments will end. The rulings highlight how wives, as is more often the case, are now expected to work once their children are of school age. Cases not involving big money are different with ex-wives often finding it harder to regain employment.

How do you achieve the often illusive work/life balance?

Like many people, I find it a challenge and often let off steam by cheering on my daughter in streaming sunshine and pouring rain at her weekend hockey and netball matches. I’m also renowned for letting referees know when I disagree with them – much to my family’s embarrassment!

For information about any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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By Peter Jones, founder of Jones Myers Family Law Solicitors

A recent divorce case, which has been widely reported and involved a substantial amount of money, has prompted family lawyers to sit up and question if the so-called ‘meal ticket for life’ regarding maintenance payments is coming to an end

The divorce case involved a wife who had received over £9 million and an additional £175.000 each year in maintenance.  However this was limited to a three year period by the Court of Appeal.

Although it is understandable to think that big money financial settlement cases do not affect those on average or below average incomes, there is nevertheless a trend in the courts against setting maintenance for an indefinite period.

When looking at recent rulings, wives, as is more often the case, are now expected, to seek out and obtain work once any children are of school age. They also need to draw on their own assets to help support them.

However, the standard of living they enjoyed, the needs of the children and the earning capacity of both former spouses are still major factors in assessing the amount and length of maintenance.

It is not hard to understand that a wife who is awarded more than £9 million and over £500k across three years does not justify receiving maintenance for ever.

Ordinary cases of separation and divorce are different with ex-wives often finding it harder to regain employment and some employers reluctant to employ woman. Likewise, salaries are often modest and also have to take into account the additional costs of child care, especially in the holidays.

In my view, and dependent on age and income prospect, there is still room for life time maintenance perhaps unfairly called a ‘meal ticket for life’.

Every case and every couple are different and the background and current circumstances need careful thought. Now, as never before, is the time to take proper advice and enlist the support of experienced lawyers like Jones Myers who specialise in family law and can advise and support you through the legal process.

For more information about divorce and finances, children’s issues or any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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Our latest blog on The Divorce Magazine puts the spotlight on how to avoid a financial settlement being rejected. Below is the article in full.

Separating or getting a divorce [Splitting up] from a partner can be an emotional roller coaster and planning your future finances may be the last thing you feel like doing.

However, it is vitally important for the long-term wellbeing of both you and your ex that on divorcing a financial settlement is reached that is mutually satisfactory and will stand up to legal scrutiny.

Generally speaking there are three areas to be considered when working out who has what proportion of the joint finances – and for how long.

• Assets – including savings, investments, property or shares
• Income – the amount and length of time any post separation payments should be made
• Pensions – the type of scheme and its value

The first step in ensuring a robust financial settlement for a divorce is arranging an exchange of all the financial information. Only by doing this will all parties gain an insight into the whole financial landscape.

The next priority is building a detailed picture of the needs of each party, both now and going forwards. This often involves a process of quid pro quo – for example one of you might seek the security of a home while the other may want to be the sole beneficiary of a future pension pay out. Crucially, the rationale for any trade-off will need to be clearly explained in the court document so that it can be scrutinised by the judge. Care should also be taken to ensure there are no hidden difficulties such as penalties on settlement of a mortgage or tax problems.

The next stage is drawing up a timetable that ensures all transactions such as maintenance payments, property transfers or lump sum payments have an agreed cut off date. This will also be checked by the court, to ensure that it is deemed fair for both parties.

When making its judgements, the court will take into account a range of factors for both parties including financial resources, financial obligations, standard of living, age, health and the contributions made to the marriage.

Creating an agreement that will stand the test of time is a complex task and it always pays to seek advice from a highly experienced divorce and family lawyer who can ensure that everything is encapsulated in an agreement which is in a format that is acceptable to the court.  Once the agreement is approved, it will give clarity and certainty to each party enabling them both to look forward into the future with security and optimism.

Jones Myers’ financial remedies team have vast experience in resolving financial issues and disputes relating to divorce. As a member of resolution they are experienced in mediation and collaborative law as methods for resolving finances.

For more information about divorce and finances, children’s issues or any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal heard that the solicitor admitted signing a statement of truth which failed to declare his interest in a property.

He submitted a false explanation relating to the proceeds of the property, which was worth £75,000, claiming he had lost the money in a failed investment.

The law leaves everyone in no doubt about being honest when giving information about income and assets. When divorcing the starting point for sorting out finances is a full disclosure of each person’s assets which include homes, other properties, savings, shareholdings, pensions and trusts – whether in the UK or abroad and details of income from every source.

The court has a wide discretion in applying the law and the family assets are shared to achieve fairness – with the first consideration being the welfare of any children.

Once everyone involved in the divorce is aware of and understands, the extent of the finances involved, it is easier and consequently more cost effective for a fair solution to be achieved.

Hiding assets will invariably be found out and, even if an order has been made when the deceit has been discovered, it can be set aside. This protracted process can incur considerable costs, with the deceitful party usually paying both parties’ costs to rectify the order. The previous order will be “shredded” and a new one drawn up.

The reputational and financial ramifications of such misconduct are long lasting, detrimental to all involved and can result in imprisonment. In this particular case, The Solicitors Disciplinary Tribunal found the lawyer’s misconduct to be ‘seriousness at the highest level’, agreeing he should be struck off and ordered him to pay £29,000 in costs.

Our divorce and separation team at our Leeds and newly opened Harrogate office are experts in helping our clients to ensure a full and frank disclosure to achieve a financial settlement in divorce proceedings. We are adept in dealing with complicated business structures, family firms, trusts (including offshore), and work closely with valuers, forensic accountants and tax experts when required.

Our approach encourages clients to co-operate and reach agreement wherever possible about dividing their assets and securing the future security the family.

To make an appointment or enquiry with one of our divorce and separation team by telephone our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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We are delighted to have retained our Tier 1 ranking in the Chambers 2018 Guide for Leeds, Bradford and surrounding areas – where we have more leading experts in family law listed than any other firm of our kind.

The UK Guide, Chambers 2018 describes our practice as, “A very strong firm – not just in finance but also in children cases.” It adds, “Expertise in dealing with financial remedy nuptial cases adds depth to their practice.”

Four of our solicitors retain their listings as Leading Individuals – director Richard Peaker, founder Peter Jones, head of the children department Kate Banerjee and collaborative law guru, Norman Taylor.

What the Guide says about our top team:

Kate Banerjee

Kate is described as “Experienced in complex children cases, including contact and residence issues and often acts for parents, guardians and local authorities.”

Richard Peaker

Richard is hailed as “One of the leading solicitors in his field” and “Is well versed in matrimonial finance work and especially skilled at handling issues with regards to company, shareholding and extensive family wealth.”

Peter Jones

Peter is celebrated as “A veteran in the family law sphere”, with “A great deal of experience in complicated family issues arising from divorce and separations.”

Norman Taylor

Norman is described as “Very prominent in collaborative work and meditation. He specialises in medium to high net worth family finance work.”

The powerful plaudits come hot on the heels of the 2017 Legal 500 guide endorsing Jones Myers’ standing as a leader in the field of family law by once again awarding our niche practice a joint Top Tier position for Leeds, West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire.

The highly respected industry guide described us as ‘A family practice that is one of the best in the area’ and attracts praise for our ‘sensible, expert, conciliatory advice that does what it says on the tin’.

Jones Myers founder, Peter Jones, said: “This latest ranking acknowledges the wealth of experience of our team which includes in house counsel, mediators, an arbitrator, a former Deputy District Judge, advocates with higher rights of audience, advanced financial provision specialists – along with Resolution Accreditation national committee members.”

Our firm, whose lawyers boast a combined 250 years’ of legal experience, has marked another formative year. This has seen us establishing a new office in Harrogate and a series of expansions to our children department.

For more information about any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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New research confirms that as the number of divorces among the over 55s continues to soar, women in their 50s and 60s lack the confidence to manage their finances following a break-up.

This concern over money management reinforces the findings of a Chartered Insurance Institute study, which stressed how divorce and separation pose a substantial financial risk to women whose former husbands took care of the family finances.

The report outlined how a divorced woman’s pension wealth is less than a third of that of an average divorced man.

The findings also revealed that women in this situation are likely to have more caring responsibilities and to suffer mental health problems.

Divorced women in their 50s and 60s are at an age when major decisions often have to be made on key issues including pensions, investments, property disposal, care planning and inheritance. Understandably, they cannot afford to make the wrong choices.

At Jones Myers, helping vulnerable ex-wives with their newfound responsibilities has always been a priority. We begin by explaining the full range of financial solutions available – in a way that is readily understood by all involved.

In addition to the support we can provide, we work closely with a group of well-respected independent financial advisors.

While family, friends and online resources can often provide good advice, the reassurance of talking face-to-face to an accredited personal finance expert with a strong track record cannot be overstated.

Together, as a team, we can find a resolution to give security and financial confidence for the future.

For more information about financial issues post- divorce or any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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A solicitor with a strong track record in family law and social care law is further enhancing the reputation of our children’s team at our niche family law firm.

Sasha Williams joins our department’s nine-strong team – which includes an ‘in house’ counsel – and attracts complex and varied casework in the UK and overseas. Her experience spans areas including residence, contact, immigration, asylum and domestic violence.

Based in Leeds, Harrogate and London, Jones Myers is at the forefront of international child abduction law and is accredited by a specialist panel operated by the International Child Abduction and Contact Unit.

Sasha said: “The reputation of Jones Myers, which is among the country’s most respected family law firms, is second to none and I’m looking forward to contributing to the ongoing success of the practice.”

Headed by Kate Banerjee – who has Higher Court Rights and is a member of the International Child Abduction and Custody Unit – the children’s department team members jointly combine almost nine decades of expertise.

Kate added: “In today’s evolving modern world, families are more diverse – bringing wider issues, which impact on children. With a wealth of experience in family law and social care law, Sasha’s expertise compliments our skills as our national and international casework continues to increase.”

Sasha’s new role has been well received in the media, achieving much vibrant coverage. This has included a special profile in the Yorkshire Post on the biggest developments the lawyer has witnessed in the legal world during her career.

Her appointment coincides with a series of recent milestones which include our specialist firm retaining its joint top tier ranking and being recommended as ‘one of the best in the area’ by the latest esteemed Legal 500 guide.

Formative developments have also seen us open a new office in Harrogate. Based at Windsor House, our services will complement those we provide at our existing offices in Leeds and Essex where we combine professional legal advice with a sensitive approach.

For more information about child abduction, children’s issues, divorce or any aspect of family law, call Jones Myers at our Leeds office on 0113 246 0055, our Harrogate office on 01423 276104, visit jm2023.jonesmyers.co.uk, email info@jonesmyers.co.uk or tweet us @helpwithdivorce

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