Judge criticises couple over “grotesquely” expensive divorce battle

A judge has criticised a couple for running up a bill of £1.5m just to decide where their divorce proceedings should be heard.

Property developer Jim Moore separated from his wife Kim in 2003. The family had previously moved to Spain so he wanted the divorce to be dealt with there. He offered his wife £6m plus property. However, she wanted the proceedings to be heard in England. When the High Court agreed that she should be allowed to do so her husband appealed.

However, his appeal failed prompting criticism for both parties from the judge. He said the battle over where the proceedings should take place was “lamentable and grotesque” and pointed out that English law would apply had the case gone ahead in Spain. He said the £1.5m bill was shocking.

This is an extreme case of course but illustrates how matters can get out of all proportion when couples start to confront each other during divorce rather than try to reach an amicable settlement.

Often it is better to seek mediation in these cases rather than stick rigidly to pursue the matter through the courts. Mediation can be far more economical as well as less stressful and damaging to the couple’s future relationship. This is particularly important in cases where children are involved and couples need to keep in contact to ensure amicable arrangements over such things as access and maintenance.

Please contact either Catherine Wenborn or Emma Rodgers if you would like more information about mediation and divorce proceedings.