In this financial dispute, I represented the respondent (H) during a Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR) hearing in Canterbury Family Court before a District Judge. The case centred around a long-term marriage with significant assets to be divided, including multiple properties. A key point of contention was the treatment of the family home, which it was argued should be excluded from the marital assets, as it had been gifted to him during the marriage. However, the opposing party (W) sought a settlement exceeding £1 million, arguing for an equal division of all assets.
During the hearing, the judge provided an indication that heavily favoured W’s position, stating that the family home would likely be considered a matrimonial asset and part of the matrimonial pot. Although the court acknowledged some of H’s contributions, it was clear that there would be little deviation from an equal split, given the circumstances.
Following the judge’s indication, negotiations began between the parties. Initial offers were far apart. After several rounds of negotiation, a settlement was reached at £650,000. The agreement also stipulated that a jointly owned property would be sold, with proceeds divided equally. Additionally, a payment plan was arranged.
The outcome was favourable for H, significantly reducing the original claim from over £1 million by more than one third. This avoided the need for a lengthy final hearing. The resolution brought a timely and satisfactory end to the dispute for both parties.