Mace & Jones: Divorcees win equal pension rights

Published: 6th October 2008

A leading North West law firm says scores of divorcees are likely to see more substantial payouts from their ex-spouses' pensions in the coming tax year due to changes in legislation.

Mace and Jones head of family law Carole Atkinson said that from next April, the age will be lowered at which divorcees will be able to claim the same benefits as former partners who are enrolled in a particular occupational or personal pension scheme, even if they are not members themselves. They will be able to draw benefits from the age of 50 instead of 60, and in addition they can take a 25% tax free lump sum.

"These changes are likely to be fairer and will benefit people with pension orders," she said. "However, it will complicate matters. With earlier tax free lump sums being made available to divorced wives husbands will look to reduce the number of years maintenance orders are in place. It is essential to take sound legal advice to resolve these matters to your benefit."

Professionals wanting family law advice can contact carole.atkinson@maceandjones.co.uk or any member of the Mace & Jones family law team in Liverpool: 0151 236 8989 Manchester: 0161 214 0500 Knutsford: 01565 634234.