Divorce is not always just about ending a marriage.

For many couples, one of the biggest questions is what happens to the money, property, pensions and other assets built up during the marriage.

And when the couple cannot agree, things can become complicated very quickly.

A recent case, HJ v QY [2026], is a good example of just how drawn-out financial proceedings can become when one party does not properly engage with the process.

 

Background

 

The wife in this case found herself attending 15 listed hearings, according to contemporary reporting of the judgment. The judge described the husband’s conduct as involving “systematic non-disclosure”.

In simple terms, there were serious problems with the financial information being provided to the court.

The wife ultimately had to seek information from third parties, including banks, DVLA and other organisations, to help establish the husband’s financial position.

The case is an extreme example, but it highlights an important point:

Financial remedy proceedings depend on both sides being open and honest about their finances.

So, what does a financial remedy proceeding actually look like?

Please note: This article is intended as a general overview and is not legal advice. If you are involved in financial remedy proceedings, please seek appropriate legal advice applicable to your circumstances.

 

The foundation: Form A

 

If a couple cannot agree how their finances should be dealt with following divorce, they may apply to the court for a financial order.

The process is generally started by submitting a Form A.

Before going to court, parties are encouraged to consider whether the dispute can be resolved through negotiation or another form of non-court dispute resolution, where appropriate.

If court proceedings are issued, the Form A starts the formal process.

 

First Appointment: What do we actually have?

 

The first main stage is usually the First Appointment (FA).

Before this hearing, both parties are expected to provide detailed financial disclosure. A key document is Form E, which sets out a person’s financial position, including their property, income, pensions, savings, investments and debts.

If something is missing or unclear, questions can be raised through a questionnaire and further information or documents may be requested.

At the First Appointment, the judge considers the issues and financial disclosure and gives directions about what needs to happen next.

The aim is to make sure the case is properly prepared before the parties try to reach a settlement.

 

The FDR: Can we settle this?

 

The Financial Dispute Resolution appointment (FDR) is designed to help the parties reach an agreement without going all the way to a final hearing.

By this stage, the parties should have complied with the directions given by the court.

The FDR judge will consider the financial information and the positions of both sides and may give an indication of what they consider to be a reasonable outcome.

This can be extremely useful.

Sometimes both parties are convinced they are right. Hearing the court’s view can help both sides step back, reconsider their position and, hopefully, reach an agreement.

If an agreement is reached, it can be recorded in a consent order, where appropriate.

 

Final Hearing: The last resort

 

If the parties still cannot agree, the case may proceed to a Final Hearing.

Here, the judge will consider the evidence and arguments from both sides and make a decision about the outstanding financial issues.

This can include matters such as the family home, other properties, pensions, savings, businesses, capital and income.

The court will then make a legally binding order.

Final hearings are generally something parties try to avoid where possible because court proceedings can be expensive, time-consuming and stressful.

This is why early, informed settlement is often encouraged.

 

So, how can we help?

 

At CSL Law, we have a dedicated team of specialist family lawyers with a combined experience of almost 30 years.

We have represented people across a wide range of financial circumstances, from those with modest assets and income to high-net-worth individuals with multiple properties, businesses, pensions and complex financial arrangements.

Our approach is simple: we explain things in plain language and pride ourselves on being transparent and honest throughout the process.

We aim to make the process friendly and approachable, while being transparent about costs, timescales and the potential risks involved in different decisions.

Should you wish to book an initial consultation with us, please do not hesitate to contact us on info@csllaw.co.uk or 0203 463 1300.