Former spouse ceases to pay maintenance

Sarah acted for a client with regard to financial and divorce proceedings. Following separation, the client’s former spouse stopped contributing to the family expenses. Sarah made an urgent application to the court to reinstate the payments in full and an application to address the client’s long term financial needs. The main asset between the parties was the spouse’s business. Sarah obtained a valuation of the business and advice regarding its liquidity. The parties agreed long term financial arrangements at a private hearing, which included provision for the client’s capital and pension needs and a charge over the spouse’s shares in the business. Sarah also secured ongoing substantive spousal and child maintenance for the client and a school fees order.