A dog is very much part of the family and if you have reached the decision that your marriage has come to an end, it is natural that you will be worried about who your dog will live with.
How are dogs seen by the law?
Whilst we love and care for dogs as one of the family, the law unfortunately does not see them in this light. Legally, dogs and all pets are considered as possessions. As such, they are considered to be asset of the marriage. Obviously, a dog cannot be split like other assets.
How we can help
We understand how important pets are and we will do our best to help negotiate arrangements for your beloved pet.
Hopefully, you will be able to resolve the issue amicably with your ex and reach a resolution that is in the best interests of your dog.
However, in the absence of an agreement, your dog will be considered alongside the other assets from your marriage and can be discussed as part of any offers of settlement. If no agreement is made as part of wider negotiations, then ultimately a court can decide who your dog will live with as part of an overall financial settlement. However, court is always a last resort and we are highly skilled negotiators with 95% of our cases settling outside of court.
If you are worried about who your dog will live with it is important to seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity.
To see how Harrogate Family Law can help you, give us a call today on 01423 594680.
Andrew Meehan is an experienced family lawyer specialising in complex divorces involving significant or hidden assets, as well as cases involving children.
He is recommended for family law by both Chambers 2019 (York, Hull and surrounding regions) and the Legal 500 2018 (Leeds/West Yorkshire and North Yorkshire region).
Everyone’s circumstances are different and this article is provided by way of general information only and must not be replied upon. If you require legal advice on a family law issue, please feel free to contact us by emailing enquiries@harrogatefamilylaw.co.uk.
