- Form E is a document used by the family court to obtain information as to each person’s income, savings, investments, pension, belongings and property.
- Form E is a “one size fits all” which is intended to cover all eventualities. Most people will find there is at least one section that does not apply to them.
- The Form sets out on each page the supporting documents required. Some of these cover a time period, e.g. the last 12 months.
- It also asks you to predict what your future requirements will be in terms of your budget for day to day living costs, and what you need to set yourself up as a separate person (or with your children) at the end of the marriage e.g. house, car etc. It is quite important to get this right as it can be difficult to justify changes at a later stage. Often your solicitor can supply you with a schedule of outgoings to prompt you to think of everything.
- When Form E is ordered to be filed in court proceedings, the aim is to have the supporting evidence as near to the date of filing as possible. For example, a filing date of 10th September would mean including your August payslip.
- There are some things in a Form E that it is acceptable not to know e.g. the value of a business or the amount of capital gains tax payable on disposal of a rented property. You can state on the Form that you do not know, and a way of finding out that information can then be agreed upon or ordered by a Judge.
- Form E carries a statement of truth, which you are asked to sign. It is a serious matter, and can be used against you in negotiations or arguments before a Judge, if it is clear that you have not been honest in the information you have provided in your Form E. In some circumstances, it could lead to the case being re-opened and the matter being dealt with afresh.
What to expect from Form E
Initial Fixed Fee Consultation
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Disclaimer: This guide contains general information only and does not constitute legal advice. You need to consult a suitably qualified lawyer from the firm on any specific legal issue.
Barr Ellison LLP in Cambridge has a small but highly regarded family law practice, which handles divorce, financial matters including international assets or income streams, property settlements, and children arrangements. Lead partner Sarah Martin and vastly experienced associate Karen Anker are known for 'a personal service of an extremely high quality', and clients remark that they 'fight their client's cases with clarity and great attention to detail'. Martin, who frequently acts for high-net-worth individuals, academics, and entrepreneurs, is particularly well known for her expertise in private children law matters.
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