Macca and Mucca – What is actually happening? - 20 February 2008

It is human nature to be intrigued by celebrity divorces and therefore many of us have been following the McCartney and Mills divorce but what is actually happening?

When a divorcing couple are unable to reach an agreement out of court in relation to the marital home and other assets, it is possible to file an application with the court. Even after issuing an application parties are given every opportunity to try and agree a settlement.

At the first directions appointment a decision is made as to whether the case is suitable for a dispute resolution hearing (DRH) or a final hearing. At a DRH the Judge assists the parties in trying to reach an agreement but cannot impose a settlement upon them. If they cannot reach an agreement, the matter is listed for a final hearing where the Judge considers both the written and oral evidence of the parties and then makes a decision based on that.

Last week the McCartney and Mills financial hearing was listed in the High Court and due to end on Friday. Unfortunately it had to be extended into the following Monday. Even though a matter is listed for a final hearing, it is still possible for parties to try and agree a settlement. Unfortunately they were unable to do so. The hearing may have taken longer as Heather Mills decided to represent herself. The Judge now has to decide whether he has heard sufficient evidence to enable him to make a decision. If he has the judgment will be handed down in a few weeks. If not, the matter will be listed for a further hearing, to enable the evidence to be concluded.

The financial settlement will not be made public unless the case goes to the Court of Appeal so we may have to speculate on how much of Sir Paul’s £825 million Heather Mills is awarded. However, there is every chance the matter could be appealed so watch this space.

For further information contact either Julie Wain on 01785 211411 email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it or Shani Carr on 01889 583871 email This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it