Pet Custody and Divorce… Apparently, it’s a thing!

According to a survey conducted in 2011, 20 percent of couples that were separating sought legal advice and even fought custody for their pets after their relationship finished. Eight years on, it’s clear that this percentage must have significantly increased.

For many people, their pets are almost like family members. As such, it’s only natural that both people in a couple would seek to have custody of their pets, and even fight to keep them.

But how does the UK law come into place here? Let’s discuss!

The Basic Truth

Courts in the UK do not treat pets as ‘custody’ claims i.e. they do not treat pets as if they were children. And though some pet owners might find this to be offensive, the court ruling states that pets are property or possessions. As such, the court does not spend time analysing who pays for the pet’s well-being, or who will spend their time taking care of it.

Because of this lax attitude towards pets, what many people are concerned with is that the courts will take no consideration for the welfare of the pet. This includes whether the other person can actually take care of them, if they even want to, or how the move might affect the pet.

And while many couples believe that it is their right to decide on this dispute in court, they may just be given an order to stop wasting the court’s time and decide it amongst themselves.

Is there a Solution?

Your pet deserves attention as well. You are both responsible for their health and well-being, and should seriously decide how this conflict can be solved. In some cases, both parties add clauses in their divorce contracts on specific care for the pet. This includes grooming, medical treatment and more.

If you and your ex-spouse can determine proper payment and responsibilities, you may be able to amenably share caring for your pet. If not, it might be best to ask a professional in divorce law on what you should do next.

Divorce Solicitors in Wembley

Wembley Solicitors is an expert law firm in London, dedicated to help clients with their legal matters. If you need legal advice and representation for your divorce, contact us at 020 3417 3700. We’ll help you come to the right decision, for your sake and your pet’s sake as well!