Taunton divorce solicitor Harriet Day answers the commonly asked question: ‘What financial settlement am I entitled to when separating?’
One of the biggest concerns for separating couples is how their finances will be divided. Whether you are married, in a civil partnership, or coming out of a long‑term relationship, understanding your financial rights is essential.
Taunton family law solicitor, Harriet Day, advises clients in Somerset and Bristol on achieving fair and practical financial settlements. In this article, she explains the key issues couples commonly face and how we can help you resolve them.
What Is a Financial Settlement?
A financial settlement is the legal process of dividing a couple’s assets and income when they separate. It can include:
- property
- savings
- pensions
- business interests
- debts
- maintenance payments
A settlement can be reached through negotiation, mediation, or, as a last resort, court proceedings.
What Can Be Included in a Financial Settlement?
Harriet specialises in securing fair and workable financial arrangements for separating couples, including:
- Division of property and equity
- Pension sharing and pension attachment orders
- Spousal maintenance
- Lump‑sum payments
- Child maintenance arrangements
- Separation agreements
- Clean break orders
- Financial orders by consent
- Disputes involving business assets or inherited wealth
Contentious Financial Disputes Between Separating Couples
Disputes can arise for many reasons, including:
- disagreements over property value
- disputes about contributions
- concerns about hidden assets
- complex pension arrangements
- business ownership
- inherited wealth
- unequal earning capacity
Harriet helps clients resolve these disputes through:
- negotiation
- solicitor‑led correspondence
- mediation
- round‑table meetings
- court applications where necessary
What Factors Are Considered When Resolving Financial Settlements?
Every case is different, and the outcome will depend on a range of factors, including:
- the length of the relationship
- each person’s income and earning capacity
- housing needs
- childcare responsibilities
- contributions to the marriage (financial and non‑financial)
- pensions and long‑term financial security
Harriet provides clear, practical advice to help you understand what a fair settlement looks like and how best to achieve it.
Do I Need a Solicitor for a Financial Settlement?
While some couples can agree matters themselves, many benefit from specialist legal advice, especially where a dispute arises and:
- there are children
- there is a family home
- pensions are involved
- one person earns significantly more
- there are business assets
- there is a risk of unfairness
A solicitor ensures your settlement is legally binding and protects your future financial security.
How Harriet and Our Taunton Family Law Team Can Help You
As Taunton’s top‑ranked family law firm on ReviewSolicitors*, we offer:
- specialist advice on financial settlements
- fixed‑fee divorce options
- transparent costs
- tailored guidance based on your circumstances
- support from an experienced family law solicitors
- a constructive, solution‑focused approach
Harriet Day is known for her clear communication, practical advice, and ability to help clients reach fair outcomes with confidence.
Get Help Today
If you need advice about financial settlements, divorce, or separation, Harriet and our Taunton family law and divorce team are here to help. Contact us for a free initial discussion, and we will guide you through your options.
Call 0333 888 0404 or email [email protected]
*ReviewSolicitors June 2026.
Slee Blackwell Solicitors LLP is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority and specialises in divorce and family law.
