- Pensions are often overlooked in divorces
- The family home is difficult to value and can cause conflict
- Investments and cash are easier to split, but may have tax liabilities
Splitting matrimonial assets during a divorce is rarely easy. At an emotionally charged time, it can be difficult to consider both parties' current and future needs; but making a mistake can prove costly.
Historically, women have tended to fare worse. Data from the Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing and the Pensions Policy Institute found that in roughly half of couples, one of the partners – typically the man – owns 90 per cent of pension wealth. Adding divorce to the mix can leave women at a considerable disadvantage, on average costing them £77,000 in retirement, according to research from Scottish Widows.