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White v White: 20 years on from seminal farming divorce case
Abby Buckland
Chambers UK, A Client's Guide to the UK's Legal Profession
Our team of family lawyers has considerable experience of farming divorces and the difficulties these cases can present. Farming divorces are unique, fact specific and often involve highly charged emotions. It is essential that the correct strategy is adopted from the outset and that is what our team prides itself on getting absolutely right.
At the very beginning of a case involving a farming family, we visit our client and the farm to experience the situation on the ground and how it works. It is crucial that we can visualise the partnership or business structure, the particular features of the farm and the involvement of other family members. It also gives our client the confidence that we understand what is at stake.
We are experts in recognising and navigating the particular issues which effect farming cases such as:
Over the years, a large number of “farming” divorce cases have been decided in the High Court in London. Inevitably, a small number of London law firms and their family law practices (of which we are one) have gained the ability, knowledge and understanding of the way in which these disputes play out and are contested. Our team therefore has extensive litigation experience, contacts and the all-important instinct which makes us uniquely placed to recognise and understand the issues and strategy required to defend and contest these cases.
Our team has forged strong relationships with a diverse range of expert professionals (such as valuers of agricultural property, farmland, livestock, deadstock, accountants who specialise in agricultural business valuations and tax and experts advising on trusts, tenancies and planning) both in the UK and abroad, with the objective of working together with our clients to provide knowledge and advice. We provide you with a full and well-rounded service, not just legal and tactical guidance.
We also understand the importance of protecting a farming business from the consequences of a potential future divorce and we regularly advise on pre and post nuptial agreements involving farming assets. We understand the sensitivity and lack of romance in contemplating a marriage breakdown before (or shortly after) your wedding but planning ahead is essential for every farming family; it could mean the difference between the business being sold or continuing for the benefit of future generations.
Our specialist Wills, Trust and Inheritance team are also experienced in dealing with Farms and Landed Estates in the context of inheritance disputes (or pre-empting such disputes).
Some examples of our team's experience in farming cases include:
If you require further information or advice from our team of specialist family and divorce solicitors relating to farming and divorce, please contact a member of our team or call us on +44 (0)20 7814 1200. Alternatively, click here to get started online and find out where you stand.
"All have been excellent and have shown great diligence and practicality, along with sensitivity during a very difficult time in my life"
Client
Abby Buckland
Abby Buckland
Laura Phillips
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