A relative owned her house and it was in her name when she remarried seven years ago. Her husband has now left her and is demanding half the value of the property, even though he never contributed to the mortgage payments or to the upkeep of the house. What’s he entitled to?
There are no fixed rules, but it’s unlikely that he would be awarded as much as half the house other than in exceptional circumstances. The fact that the property belonged to your relative prior to the marriage and that her husband made no contribution towards it will be important, but if he contributed to the marriage in other respects this will be taken into account. Your relative should see a solicitor to ensure a fair settlement is reached.