Do pensions always get split in a divorce?

Answer

No, pensions don’t always get split in a divorce. In fact, The Times Money Mentor says that only 16% of couples split the pension in a divorce. This is mainly because couples consider property and other assets as more important and part of the marital pot and perhaps feel unentitled to the other person’s pension because it is what has accumulated over time whilst working. 

In a divorce, parties can decide between themselves how best to split their assets fairly. Sometimes, couples are able to come to arrangements with the help of their solicitors without having to go to court. Some couples go to mediation sessions which can help them come to amicable agreements by explaining what they each want out of the settlement. An independent mediator will then guide them in reaching reasonable conclusions that are in the best interests of everyone involved. 

Depending on the situation, the couple may decide to keep their own private pensions for instance. If they are able to make a decision between themselves, they are advised to get a consent order to make the agreement legally binding.