Discovery of Secret Bank Account
Victoria, 58, from Surrey, discovered her husband of 15 years had been maintaining a separate bank account used to pay for escorts. The revelation came after four years of marital difficulty. The couple, who own two properties, are now living separately while deciding their future. Victoria admits to a comfortable lifestyle funded by her husband, including five or six annual holidays to the Caribbean and Dubai, and she does not work. Her two sons from a previous relationship, both over 18, have also been supported by her husband.
Legal Rights and Financial Disclosure
Consumer champion Sarah Davidson advises that a divorce does not necessarily mean destitution. In a 15-year marriage, the starting point for asset division is a 50/50 split, regardless of who earned the money. The court views breadwinner and homemaker contributions as equal. Davidson warns that hiding assets on a Form E financial disclosure can lead to up to seven years in prison or an unlimited fine. She recommends hiring a forensic accountant if hidden assets are suspected.
Lifestyle Adjustments and Spousal Support
While Victoria is entitled to a fair share of marital assets, including equity in properties, pensions, and savings, she will likely need to adjust her lifestyle. A court aims to meet reasonable needs, such as housing, but not fund multiple luxury vacations. Her sons are adults, so her husband has no legal obligation to continue supporting them. Spousal maintenance may be temporary, but courts increasingly favor a clean break, meaning Victoria may need to return to work.
Legal Irrelevance of Infidelity
Under no-fault divorce laws introduced in 2022, the courts do not penalize 'bad behavior' financially unless it recklessly dissipated marital assets. The money spent on escorts is considered spent, and a judge will not award a larger share of assets due to infidelity. Davidson concludes that Victoria has significant legal rights but must decide between her current lifestyle and self-respect.
