I have separated from my husband. We have not started divorce proceedings yet.

I have separated from my husband. We have not started divorce proceedings yet. I am worried about starting divorce proceedings as my husband says that when we get divorced I will have to move out of the family home. Is that correct?

Public Answer

Thank you for your enquiry.

You do not mention if the family home is owned by your husband or is owned by you or in your joint names. If your husband owns the family home, it is important that you register a matrimonial homes right notice to protect your interests. The notice will expire with the decree absolute of divorce but can be extended if you have not reached a financial settlement or you can delay applying to finalise the divorce proceedings.

If you cannot reach agreement on whether you should continue to live in the family home then if one of you starts divorce proceedings then either one of you can start financial court proceedings and ask a judge to decide how your assets, including the family home, are split. When deciding on whether it is feasible for you to stay in the family home the court would look at a range of factors, including your housing needs and the options of the house being sold or transferred to you.

We would need more information about the family home and your other assets before being able to advise you on the likely financial settlement options , for example information on the equity in the family home as well as details of other investments.

You do need family law advice on starting divorce proceedings, the likely prospects of your staying at the family home and your financial settlement options. We would therefore ask you to call us on 0203 959 9123 to arrange an appointment to discuss how we can help you.

Please note the answer provided above is for information purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. In order for OTS Solicitors to provide legal advice you would need to instruct OTS Solicitors family law team. If you would like to proceed with legal advice and consult with our family law solicitors please call us on 0203 959 9123.

[This question has been successfully answered by our lawyers in a private e-mail]