Looking for help in your family court proceedings?Bridge The Gap is a free, community-built guide to UK family court, written by litigants and McKenzie Friends, for litigants. Real observations, plain English, and people who can help.
Assumption: "Because one spouse paid the deposit and the mortgage, the family home belongs to them."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
Court Reality
Who paid the deposit and mortgage is a contribution, but it does not determine ownership in financial remedy proceedings. The family home is a matrimonial asset regardless of who paid for it, and the court divides it according to fairness and needs — not according to who wrote the cheques. Contribution is one factor among many; the needs of any children and both parties come first.
This insight was contributed by someone who has been through the family court system. Bridge The Gap is deeply grateful to everyone who shares their experience — your honesty helps bridge the gap for the next person still in it.
Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.
The Gap?
"Because one spouse paid the deposit and the mortgage, the family home belongs to them."
Court Reality
Who paid the deposit and mortgage is a contribution, but it does not determine ownership in financial remedy proceedings.
Seen a gap between what you thought and the reality? Share yours.
familycourtbridge.org
Navigating court alone?
A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.
Find your supportCookie Consent
We use essential cookies only, such as remembering this choice and keeping you signed in if you create an account. No tracking or analytics cookies are used. Read our Privacy Policy.