Separation Agreements

Financial Clarity During Separation

Clear financial terms while you decide what comes next

A separation agreement is a written agreement for couples who have separated, or who intend to separate in the near future, but are not necessarily ready to divorce or dissolve their civil partnership. It can record the financial arrangements agreed between you, including property, savings, income, debts, pensions where relevant and ongoing responsibilities. While it does not legally end a marriage or civil partnership, it can provide a clear written framework during separation and help clarify what has been agreed before any further legal steps are taken.

How I Can Help

Providing focused advice on whether a separation agreement is appropriate and how the terms should be approached. I help you identify the financial and practical issues that need to be addressed, understand the effect and limitations of the agreement and record the agreed arrangements in a careful, structured way.

I assist with:

Advice on whether a separation agreement is suitable for your circumstances
Preparation and drafting of separation agreements
Guidance on capital including any property, savings, debt, income and ongoing financial responsibilities during separation and pensions
Considering existing agreements (such as a pre-nuptial agreement, post-nuptial agreement or cohabitation agreement) that may need to be reviewed
Advice on the limitations of separation agreements and when another legal route may be more appropriate
Clear explanations of what the agreement can achieve and what it cannot legally prevent
Advice on whether agreed financial terms should later be formalised through a court-approved consent order if divorce or dissolution follows
Review and refinement of any existing proposals or draft agreements
Working alongside the other party’s solicitor to finalise terms

A Considered Approach

Separation agreements require careful preparation, clear information, and a proper understanding of what each option can achieve.

The process may involve reviewing financial disclosure, considering property, pensions, savings, income, debts, and ongoing responsibilities, and deciding whether arrangements should be recorded in a separation agreement or formalised through a court-approved financial order.

Handled properly, these arrangements can provide clarity at a difficult stage and help reduce uncertainty around financial matters.

Discuss Your Situation

If you would like to explore whether a separation agreement an introductory discussion can be arranged.

When is a Separation Agreement Appropriate

Separation agreements can provide structure and clarity when couples are living apart but are not ready, or not yet able, to divorce. They can be a practical option during a trial separation or as a less formal first step, while recognising that only a court order can provide finality in relation to financial claims.

What is a Separation Agreement?

A separation agreement is a written agreement between two people who have either already separated or are about to do so. Most commonly, it is used by married couples or those in a civil partnership, but it can also be used by unmarried couples who have been living together.

Separation Without the Stress

A separation agreement can help create structure at an uncertain stage, setting out how finances, property and practical arrangements will be handled when a relationship is ending or changing. It can be used by married couples, civil partners and unmarried couples, providing a measured first step without immediately moving into formal proceedings.

Elizabeth Stocker - Consultant Solicitor

Elizabeth is a highly experienced family law solicitor with over 17 years’ expertise in pre & post nuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, separation, divorce, civil partnership, child arrangements and financial matters. She provides clear, practical advice with a calm and supportive approach, helping clients navigate what can sometimes be complex situations with confidence. Elizabeth focuses on achieving constructive outcomes that reflect each client’s unique circumstances.

Learn more...

Where financial arrangements arising from relationships are not clearly defined, uncertainty follows.

Elizabeth Stocker is a consultant family law solicitor who undertakes legal work on agreements and financial settlements arising from relationships. Her work includes pre-nuptial agreements, post-nuptial agreements, cohabitation agreements, and financial arrangements on separation, dissolution or divorce.

Clients seek her services where financial matters require careful structure and proper legal handling.

If you would like to discuss your situation, please complete the form to request an introductory appointment.