A consent order happens when people agree on how to handle money matters after a divorce. Instead of going through a long and costly legal process, they submit a consent order, signed by both sides and their lawyers, to settle their financial issues. This is quicker and cheaper than a full financial application.
Why get a consent order?
Most divorced couples nowadays voluntarily decide how to divide their finances. Getting the consent order makes this agreement legally binding, preventing your ex from changing their mind later. It also makes it easier to enforce the agreement if they do change their mind.
Do I really need a consent order if we’ve agreed?
Yes, you should get a consent order if you’ve agreed to share pensions or if you’ve agreed to keep your individual assets without making claims against each other. Without a consent order, your ex could potentially make claims on your assets, income, or pensions in the future. Even if you’ve agreed on something, you can’t enforce it until there is an official order in place.
What does a consent order do?
A financial consent order documents the financial agreement you have made with your ex-spouse and severs the financial ties between you. You can’t achieve a clean break from future claims without this type of order.
I did my divorce online; do I still need a Financial consent order?
Yes, you definitely need one. Finalising your divorce online ends your marriage but doesn’t end your financial rights as a former spouse. You may still have rights to income, property and pensions acquired during or after your marriage.
Do I need a lawyer for a consent order?
It is highly recommended to seek legal advice before applying for a financial consent order. Once the court approves it, you can’t change the terms without your ex’s agreement, also a lawyer can help you ensure the settlement is fair, prepare the application, negotiate changes, and deal with any court requests or issues that may arise.
If you need further assistance, you can contact us at 01206 299282 or email vanessa@gillbanksfamilylaw.com through contact page. Our family law solicitors can assist with various aspects of consent orders, including reviewing your settlement, preparing the application, negotiating changes and dealing with court related matters.