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20 Phonebox Magazine | October 2024%u2022 Company Accounts%u2022 Corporati on Tax Returns%u2022 Sole Trader and Partnership AccountsEmail: andrew@aj-accountancy.co.ukTel: 07799 398555 or 01234 71315117 High Street, Olney House, Olney, Bucks, MK46 4EB%u2022 Self-Assessment%u2022 Payroll%u2022 VAT & Book-Keeping%u2022 Tax Advice and Business Start Upwww.aj-accountancy.co.ukDominic Mills & CoSolicitorsSpecialists in:WillsPowers of AttorneyDeputyship applicationsProbate and administration of estatesInheritance tax planningCare fees advicePlease contact Steven HighamBrewery House, 84 High StreetNewport Pagnell, BuckinghamshireMK16 8AQTel: 01908 618708email: sh@dmillsandco.comWebsite: www.dmillsandco.com1. We%u2019re not married, but we%u2019ve been together years %u2013 will I get 50%?This is such a common misconception when unmarried couples part ways, but there is no such thing as a %u2018common law wife/partner%u2019. If you choose not to marry then do consider a living together agreement to protect your best interests and ensure that if you own a home together that your name is included on the deed.2. Can I get divorced if we have just drifted apart? Yes %u2013 from 6 April 2022 %u2018no fault divorce%u2019 has been introduced, which means parting couples no longer have to prove their marriage has irretrievably broken down due to one of the fi ve %u2018divorce facts%u2019: adultery, unreasonable behaviour, desertion, or separation of at least two years or in some cases fi ve years. Instead, they can apply for divorce jointly, without assigning any blame on one party. 3. Do I have to give my engagement ring back if we split? If you break up with your partner, you may feel a moral obligation to return the ring - however, unless it can be proved that the ring was given conditionally, the law states that it is an absolute gift, meaning you do not have to return it to your ex. Fact or fi ction? Common relationship questions4. Is my prenuptial agreement (pre-nup) legally binding?No. A pre-nup is not legally binding in English law, however, they are becoming increasing upheld provided that they are entered into fairly and on a voluntary basis and both parties have received independent legal advice before doing so.Pre-nups do not overrule a court%u2019s decision on fi nancial arrangements on divorce but they do carry some infl uence.5. I want to get divorced, but I don%u2019t want to go to court, what can I do? Collaborative law is a great option for couples who are amicable and want to avoid going to court. This is where both parties each instruct a collaboratively trained lawyer and work together to fi nd a suitable divorce settlement, including fi nancial and child matters. Separation and divorce can be highly stressful and emotional, so it%u2019s important to have a trusted advisor by your side. For more information and support call 01908 304412, email jane.charlton@shma.co.uk or visit www.shma.co.uk Jane Charlton, Legal Director at law fi rm Shakespeare Martineau in Milton Keynes answers some of the frequently asked questions from couples across the country.