Planning ahead
Planning for the unexpected is always wise, especially when it comes to your financial security in a relationship. Taking proactive steps now can provide reassurance for the future, ensuring you’re protected should circumstances change.
At Owen White Catlin, our expert family lawyers are here to guide you through the process with sensitivity and professionalism. We help clients put contingency plans and legal safeguards in place in the event that your relationship breaks down.
We will help you with:
- Cohabitation agreements
- Pre-nuptial agreements
- Post-nuptial agreements
- Pre-registration agreements
We understand that conversations about your future can feel daunting, especially in the context of a relationship breakdown. Our dedicated solicitors will provide clear, practical advice, giving you confidence that your assets are secure—whatever life may bring.
Talk to one of our family solicitors today
Please get in touch to discuss your case with a member of our family law team and schedule a consultation. Contact us using our online enquiry form, or call us directly on one of our office numbers. Our expert team of lawyers are ready to help.
Why work with our family solicitors?
Our family law team is firmly established as the trusted solicitors of individuals and families throughout South West London, Surrey and Middlesex. We have a great deal of experience in handling all aspects of family law, so will offer you the best advice and support for your case.
As members of Resolution, which promotes a non-confrontational approach to resolving legal matters, we are committed to finding positive and constructive solutions which minimise the emotional and financial burdens you may otherwise face.
We’re also people who value good service, so we work in a way that feels right to us and right for our clients. We communicate clearly, openly and honestly, so you’ll always be updated on the progress of your case and what we think of your options.
We are always fully transparent about fees. This means we will carefully manage the costs involved in your case and discuss the most cost-effective options.
We hold a contract to provide legal aid funding for certain types of matters. However, legal aid is quite restricted. It is available free of charge for parents involved in public law proceedings (Child care proceedings). For other matters, such as financial issues, eligibility depends on the type of matter, departure rules, and means testing. To find out more, or if you are concerned about legal advice or representation costs, please speak to our team. We can assist you with the legal aid application process and discuss the various options available to you.
We have expert solicitors and support teams working at each of our offices, so it’s easy to get in touch – in person, by phone or online - when you need us.
Our planning ahead services
Cohabitation agreements
A cohabitation agreement establishes arrangements for an unmarried couple’s finances, property, and children should their relationship end or if one of them becomes seriously ill or dies. A cohabitation agreement grants unmarried couples many of the rights of marriage that they would not otherwise have. Our family lawyers will prepare and draft the correct documentation to ensure your assets are secure moving forward.
Pre-nuptial, post-nuptial and pre-registration agreements
Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements are contracts couples enter into that dictate how finances and assets will be split if they divorce. Pre-nuptial agreements must occur 28 days or longer prior to a wedding, whilst a post-nuptial agreement can be created at any time following marriage. If you are in a civil partnership, you can get a pre-registration agreement, which serves the same purpose as a pre-nuptial agreement.
Whilst nuptial agreements are not legally binding, they carry significant weight in court proceedings and, if drawn up correctly, will generally mean that you receive the desired outcome if any disputes arise.
Discussing your finances may be an uncomfortable topic, especially in the speculative context of a divorce. Nevertheless, these agreements will protect your assets in the event of a relationship breakdown. Our family law solicitors will ensure that your legal documentation is completed to ensure you can venture into your marriage secure in the knowledge that your assets are protected.
Talk to one of our family solicitors
To discuss your case with a member of our family law team or to schedule a consultation, please get in touch today. Contact us using our online enquiry form, or call us directly on one of our office numbers – our friendly team is ready to help.