In high-net-worth divorce, the legal, financial, and emotional stakes can be exponentially higher. Assets are often complex, income streams multifaceted, and privacy concerns paramount. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, professional, or married to one, understanding what to expect can help you navigate this process with clarity and control.
Here’s what typically distinguishes a high-net-worth divorce — and what to prepare for.
Complex asset structure
Unlike a typical divorce, high-net-worth divorce cases often involve:
- Family businesses, shares, or partnerships
- Trusts (domestic and offshore)
- Property portfolios across jurisdictions
- Investments, pensions, and carried interest
- Art, crypto, yachts — even racehorses
These assets must be accurately valued, disclosed, and, where appropriate, traced — especially if there are concerns around dissipation or concealment.
As a result it is very important to work with a solicitor who has access to forensic accountants, valuation experts, and tax specialists from day one.
Pre and post-nuptial agreements
While not automatically binding, nuptial agreements carry significant weight under English law, especially when they are:
- Freely entered into (and signed at least 28 days before the wedding for pre-nups)
- With full financial disclosure
- With independent legal advice
- Fair at the time of enforcement which usually means they take account of needs
If you or your spouse signed one, it will likely shape the financial outcome — unless the court finds it would lead to unfairness or leave one party in need.
Privacy and reputation management
For high-profile individuals, privacy is a priority. English family courts offer some protection but there is increased openness with more and more reporting therefore it is important to consider what options there are left to maintain privacy
Remedies may include:
- Private FDRs (Financial Dispute Resolution hearings)
- Non-disclosure orders
- Specialist PR support
Choosing the right forum (court vs. arbitration) can also significantly impact privacy.
Maintenance and lifestyle considerations
In high-net-worth divorces, one spouse may seek spousal maintenance reflective of a lifestyle enjoyed during the marriage. Courts will assess:
- Standard of living
- Income needs (with scrutiny)
- Earning capacity and career sacrifice
- Duration of marriage
That said, the courts are moving toward financial independence — particularly in shorter marriages or where both parties are financially sophisticated.
International dimensions
Many HNW couples have assets and connections abroad, raising questions about:
- Jurisdiction: which country the divorce should be heard in
- Enforcement of orders overseas
- Foreign trust or property laws
Jurisdiction must also be considered as the choice of jurisdiction may impact the financial outcome.
Children and relocation
When children are involved, arrangements must be sensitive to lifestyle and schooling — often with international implications.
Issues may include:
- Child maintenance (CM) calculations (beyond the CMS cap)
- International relocation requests
- Travel consent and passports
- Use of private therapists or parenting coordinators
Final thoughts on high-net-worth divorce
A high-net-worth divorce isn’t just a legal process — it’s a financial and strategic negotiation. The right legal team will do more than just protect your rights. They’ll safeguard your reputation, secure your long-term financial goals, and work discreetly to minimise emotional and financial fallout.
At Moore Barlow, our divorce solicitors advise individuals at the highest levels of business and wealth. If you need confidential advice tailored to your circumstances, we’re here to help with expertise and empathy.
