When divorcing or separating from your spouse or partner, any agreement reached in relation to finances should be approved by the court, who will approve the agreement as being reasonable and, so far as is possible, dismiss any further financial claims in the future.

However, this does not mean that court proceedings are an essential part of reaching an agreement; recently the onus has been put on parties using NCDR where possible.

The guide below sets out to explain, as briefly as possible, the different forms of NCDR that are available.

When a relationship breaks down, it’s natural to focus on both the emotional impact and the practical next steps that should be taken. Many people assume they can deal with the legal side of divorce later, or that advice is only needed if things become hostile. In reality, the decisions you make at the very beginning of a divorce often have the greatest long-term consequences.

Why timing and transparency matter more than you think

For many people, moving in with a new partner is a natural and positive step — especially if their former marriage or relationship has been emotionally over for some time. Legally, there’s nothing to stop you from beginning a new relationship or even living with someone else after separation.

In today’s global world, it’s increasingly common for couples to marry overseas — whether it’s a destination wedding on the Amalfi Coast, a religious ceremony in Delhi, or a private celebration on a beach in the Caribbean. But once the wedding is over and life returns to the UK, one key question often arises:

Is our marriage legally recognised in England and Wales?

Divorce law varies considerably from country to country, and this can have a huge bearing on the outcome of your divorce, especially for high net worth couples. Ensuring your divorce is heard in the right jurisdiction can significantly influence the financial and personal outcomes of the proceedings. The complexities of international divorce law, including the legal tests for domicile and habitual residence, highlight the variability and complexity of divorce laws internationally and the need for specialist advice from an experienced family lawyer.