£120 Million Divorce Award: Why This Case Matters to More Than Just the Ultra-Wealthy
When headlines report a £120 million divorce award, it is easy to assume that the case has little relevance to most families.
However, whilst the figures involved in TP v TF [2026] EWFC 210 are extraordinary, the legal principles considered by the court arise in divorce cases across a wide range of financial circumstances. Issues such as trusts, family wealth, third-party assets and financial disclosure are not exclusive to the ultra-wealthy. They regularly feature in financial remedy proceedings involving far more modest assets.
Think a £120 Million Divorce Has Nothing to Do With You? Think Again
In TP v TF [2026] EWFC 210, the court ordered the husband to pay his wife approximately £120.4 million, with the parties reportedly spending around £6.5 million in legal fees between them.
Whilst most people will never encounter sums of this magnitude, the real significance of the case lies not in the amount awarded but in the approach the court took when assessing the parties’ financial circumstances.
The decision serves as an important reminder that the Family Court will look carefully at all resources available to each party when determining a fair financial settlement on divorce.
Looking Beyond Legal Ownership
One of the central issues in the case was whether wealth held through family trust structures should be taken into account when determining the husband’s financial resources. The husband argued that assets held within trusts should not be treated as matrimonial assets available for division. The court examined not only who legally owned the assets, but also the extent to which the husband could realistically access them.
This principle is not limited to high-net-worth families.
In many divorce cases, questions arise regarding:
- Family businesses operated through companies.
- Wealth held in trusts.
- Assets inherited from parents or grandparents.
- Financial support regularly provided by family members.
- Informal family loans.
- Property or investments held in another person’s name.
The court’s role is often to look beyond the paperwork and consider the reality of the situation. If a financial resource is genuinely available to a party, it may be relevant even if it is not held in their own name.
The Importance of Full and Frank Financial Disclosure
Another important feature of the case was the court’s criticism of the husband’s approach to presenting his financial circumstances. The judgment highlighted concerns regarding how certain trust interests had been disclosed and characterised during the proceedings. Every individual involved in financial remedy proceedings has a duty to provide full and frank financial disclosure. This obligation applies whether the assets involved are worth £120 million or £20,000.
Where there is uncertainty surrounding assets, income or financial resources, the court may draw conclusions from the available evidence. Attempts to minimise, conceal or downplay resources can result in increased legal costs, delays and more complex litigation.
Trusts, Inheritance and Family Wealth in Divorce
Trusts are often viewed as being untouchable during divorce proceedings. However, this case demonstrates that the position is more nuanced.
The court considered whether the husband could realistically benefit from trust assets if he sought assistance from the trustees. After reviewing the evidence, the judge concluded that a substantial part of the trust wealth was effectively available to him.
For many families, trusts may not involve hundreds of millions of pounds. Instead, they might include:
- Shares in a family business.
- Agricultural property.
- Investment portfolios.
- Funds established by parents or grandparents.
- Assets intended for future generations.
Where trusts exist, obtaining specialist legal advice can be crucial to understanding how those assets may be treated within financial remedy proceedings.
What Does This Mean for Divorce Cases Involving More Modest Assets?
The vast majority of divorces do not involve nine-figure fortunes. However, the same questions frequently arise, regardless of the value of the assets involved.
For example:
- What financial resources are available to each party?
- Can assets held by third parties be taken into account?
- Is ongoing family support likely to continue?
- How should inherited wealth be treated?
- How are trust assets considered by the court?
- Has each party provided complete and accurate financial disclosure?
These issues can significantly impact the outcome of a financial settlement, regardless of the size of the estate.
Why Early Legal Advice Matters
Financial arrangements following separation can quickly become complex, particularly where trusts, family wealth, inherited assets or business interests are involved.
Seeking legal advice at an early stage can help you:
- Understand your financial position.
- Identify assets that may be relevant to a settlement.
- Ensure full and accurate disclosure.
- Resolve disputes more efficiently.
- Protect your long-term financial interests.
The earlier advice is obtained, the better placed parties are to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary disputes.
About the Author
Jane Auty is a Partner and Head of Family Law at Thornton Jones Solicitors. With over 25 years’ experience specialising exclusively in family law, Jane advises clients on all aspects of divorce, separation and financial matters, including complex and high-value cases involving business interests, pensions, trusts and agricultural assets. As a trained collaborative lawyer and member of Resolution, Jane is committed to helping clients achieve constructive and practical solutions to family disputes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Potentially. The court will consider whether trust assets are realistically available to either party and may take them into account when assessing financial resources.
Inherited assets are often treated differently from matrimonial assets, but they can still be relevant depending on the circumstances of the case.
It is the legal obligation on both parties to provide complete and accurate information about their finances during divorce proceedings.
In some circumstances, yes. The court will look beyond legal ownership and consider whether resources are genuinely available to a party.
No. Whilst this case involved substantial wealth, the underlying legal principles apply to divorce cases involving a wide range of asset values.
How Thornton Jones Can Help
If you are facing separation or divorce and have concerns about finances, trusts, inherited wealth, family businesses or financial disclosure, our specialist Family Law team can help.
We provide clear, practical and strategic advice tailored to your circumstances, helping clients navigate both straightforward and complex financial matters with confidence.
Whether your case involves significant assets or more modest family finances, our experienced solicitors can help you understand your position and work towards a fair outcome.
To arrange a confidential discussion with a member of our Family Law team, please contact Thornton Jones Solicitors today.
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