Matrimonial & Non-Matrimonial Resources on Divorce - Where Are We Post Standish? - Webinar

Introduction

The process of dividing up a couple’s money and property is often the most contentious part of a divorce, and in England and Wales, the law differentiates between two types of assets: those which are ‘matrimonial’ and those which are ‘non-matrimonial’. This distinction can make a significant difference to the outcome of the financial proceedings and has been something of a ‘hot topic’ in recent years, culminating in the ‘Standish saga’, with the Supreme Court delivering their judgment in July 2025.

This webinar explores the differences between matrimonial and non-matrimonial assets and focuses on the court’s approach to splitting assets on divorce. It will consider how the courts treat inherited assets, pre-marital acquisition, post-separation assets, businesses, and bonuses awarded after separation and examine the extent to which these can be ‘ring-fenced’ in a financial settlement. How nuptial agreements can be used to protect non-matrimonial assets will also be considered, as well as providing practical advice, tips, and guidance on how to approach cases where arguments as to matrimonial and non-matrimonial property arise.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• A look back at the principles of needs, sharing, and compensation, as established by White v White and Miller v McFarlane
• Understanding the difference between matrimonial and non-matrimonial assets and how the court deals with them
• The ‘special status’ of the family home
• When non-matrimonial property will be invaded
• How the court deals with special contributions
• Post-separation assets and accrual
• The treatment of inherited assets
• The impact of the Standish saga and where we are now - including an examination of the first instance, Court of Appeal and Supreme Court decisions
• Practical guidance on how to approach a case where arguments as to matrimonial and non-matrimonial property may arise
• Nuptial agreements can protect non-matrimonial assets in divorce

This pre-recorded webinar will be available to view from Friday 5th September 2025

Alternatively, you can gain access to this webinar and 2,101 others via the MBL Webinar Subscription. Please email webinarsubscription@mblseminars.com for more details.