Sorting out belongings, assets and debts after separation

Last updated: 07/04/2022

As well as your home there may be other property, assets, belongings and debts that you and your ex-partner need to divide after you separate. You may need expert advice to help with this.

Sharing your belongings

As part of a couple you may have collected possessions such as furniture, ornaments and even kitchen appliances that need to be shared when you separate.

Items that have been given to either of you specifically will belong to that person but other possessions will need to be divided. If you are finding this difficult to do, particularly if the possessions you cannot agree on are valuable, it is best to get help from your solicitor although this could be lengthy and expensive.

Dealing with debts

It is advisable to seek help from an expert debt adviser or solicitor if you have accumulated debt while with your partner as it is not always obvious who is responsible for particular debts. A debt adviser will not only tell you which debts you are liable for but can also help you reduce how much you owe so get advice as soon as possible.

For help dealing with debt contact your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau, local council or call National Debtline Scotland.