Ideally, there should be as little conflict as possible when separating. You should treat your partner like a business partner. Joint decisions will need to be made and there should be open lines of communication, which should be respectful and polite. Take a step back before sending a message if emotions are high.
The welfare of children should be paramount. They should not be involved in adult discussions and criticism of the other parent should be avoided.
Early access to legal and professional advice is important. The Farm Accountant will play a crucial role. The financial status quo should be maintained with the farm running in the usual way.
Give consideration to an amicable divorce through mediation or collaborative law, where discussions are conducted direct rather than through correspondence which may be misinterpreted.
There needs to be openness and honesty about your financial circumstances and any agreement should be documented, either in a Separation Agreement or a Consent Order, which the court will approve if there is a divorce. Most importantly, be kind to yourself as a relationship breakup is a major life event.

 

Jayne Turner specialises in farms on divorce. She is a Partner in the Family Team at Ashfords LLP.
She is a Resolution Accredited Specialist in Complex Finance Remedies and Pensions on Divorce, an Advanced Member of the Law Society’s Family Law Panel and a trained and experienced Collaborative Lawyer.
Jayne's Direct Line: +44 (0)1392 333861
www.ashfords.co.uk/expertise/family