The financial claims a spouse is able to bring on divorce in England and Wales are no less for members of religious institutions than for non-members. Andrew Barton, a partner in the Family team, explains the approach of the English Court to divorces where this is a feature.
The divorce courts of England and Wales will strive to ensure a fair outcome is arrived at in all divorce cases, regardless of the background or faith of the parties going through the divorce. This applies as much to members or former members of religious, quasi-religious and cult groups as it does for those of other faiths or from a non-faith background.
Such members are sometimes schooled in a more primitive way of life, promoting a more humble and unassuming way of being. However, in the event of marital breakdown, it is still by reference to the courts of England and Wales that financial claims of divorcees will be determined. The same principles apply as much to faith divorces as they do non-faith divorces, and the courts will ensure that fair and reasonable approach is taken.
This is the case regardless of whether the parties or a party to the divorce, has been separated or ex-communicated from their religious, quasi-religious or cult group. It is important to understand that the Courts and England and Wales are there to support divorcees through any divorce or separation they might undergo from cult or indeed former cult members.
If you are a member or former member of a Religious, quasi-religious or cult group and require advice regarding divorce or separation, please contact our Family team who will be able to provide you with the support and advice you require.