Divorce for company directors and shareholders
Are you the director and main shareholder of your own company? Then a divorce raises specific questions about shares, salary and pension.
Directors who own their own company face a number of specific issues in a divorce. The shares, the salary you pay yourself, a pension built up in the company and loans between you and the company all need to be assessed carefully.
The shares
Whether the shares belong to the joint assets depends on your marriage arrangements. If they do, their value has to be determined and settled. Often the shares stay with the director and the other partner receives a payment.
Salary and maintenance
As director you decide your own salary. For maintenance, the court may look at what you could reasonably pay yourself rather than what you actually do. We make sure the right income is used.
Pension in your own company
A pension built up in your own company is often a substantial asset. Dividing it can affect the financial position of the company. We look for a workable solution.
Current accounts and loans
Loans between you and your company, or between you and your partner, must be included in the settlement. These are easily overlooked but can make a big difference.
Our approach
We combine knowledge of family law with an understanding of business. Where needed we involve valuers and tax advisers, so that you receive complete advice.
Client reviews
To divide our assets and amend our prenuptial agreement I wanted a firm that knew its business. James Hartley understood my interests as a business owner immediately and handled them very discreetly. His help brought calm in a turbulent time.
After a difficult process around our prenuptial agreement and the business, I was helped really well here. James Hartley is a pleasant solicitor to work with. Everything is now settled fairly and professionally. That is one big worry less.
Discuss your case with a solicitor
Tell us about your situation without obligation. We will explain where you stand, which steps are open to you and what you can expect from us.