Does my partner have to pay the bills until we are divorced?

Answer

During the divorce process, typical household bills such as mortgage payments, utility bills, and council tax should continue to be paid as they were during the marriage, unless you decide otherwise. If your partner stops paying these bills, you could for instance agree on interim financial support through spousal maintenance. 

For jointly owned property, the financial responsibility for the mortgage remains the same, even if one person moves out. Both parties are legally bound to fulfil the mortgage payments, and the lender will not release one person from this obligation just because they have moved out. 

Failure to contribute to mortgage payments can have significant legal and financial implications, such as disputes, credit score impacts, and potential legal action or repossession. Clear communication and agreements between both parties are essential, and consulting legal and financial professionals is advisable to explore options like refinancing, selling the property, or transferring ownership as part of the divorce settlement. If one spouse refuses to pay, the court can issue orders requiring payment, and non-compliance can result in legal consequences