Divorce and your finances – planning your next chapter

Janine Hutson, Senior Associate

January’s “Divorce Month” headlines may be fading from view, and it’s certainly true that January often brings a spike in divorce enquiries. But the truth is, a decision to separate rarely happens overnight. For most people, it’s the result of months – sometimes years – of quiet thought and soul-searching.

And when it does happen, divorce can be very stressful. Beyond the emotional toll, it’s one of the biggest financial events most people will ever face. When you’re dealing with that much stress and uncertainty, it’s easy to miss important details – the kind that can affect your financial security for years to come.

Here are five practical steps that might help bring some clarity and a sense of control during what can feel like a completely overwhelming time.

1. Be clear on what actually matters to you

One of the biggest regrets people have after divorce is feeling like the final settlement didn’t reflect what was truly important to them. Early on, take some time to really think about your priorities. Is it keeping the house? Making sure the kids have stability? Protecting your long-term financial security? Knowing what matters most to you can help keep conversations focused and lead to outcomes that feel fairer.

2. Understand your future finances

It’s empowering to have even a rough sense of what your income and expenses might look like going forward. You don’t need a perfectly detailed spreadsheet – just a realistic picture. That alone can help you feel more confident in negotiations and less anxious about the unknown.

3. Don’t forget about pensions

Pensions are often one of the most valuable things a couple owns together, and yet they’re surprisingly easy to overlook or undervalue. Whether you’re looking at pension sharing, attachment, or offsetting, it’s really important to understand what each option means for your future. This can make the difference between a fair settlement and one you’ll regret down the line.

4. Update your will

Here’s something that catches people off guard: divorce doesn’t automatically sort out your estate planning. If you don’t review – and usually rewrite – your will, you could end up with outcomes you never intended. It’s one of those things that’s easy to put off, but really shouldn’t be.

5. Surround yourself with the right people

Divorce isn’t a single event – it’s a process, and often a long one. Having experienced legal and financial advisers in your corner can help you see your options more clearly and avoid expensive mistakes. And don’t underestimate the value of friends and family who can support you emotionally while you work on building a more secure future.

At Kuits, we know that divorce isn’t just about paperwork and legal processes. It’s about people, families, and futures – and we’re here to help you navigate yours.