"I have been dealing with NjP for the last couple of years over financial divorce issues and cannot fault the way they have executed all issues on my behalf. Natalie and the NjP team are very knowledgeable regarding marital issues and deal with everything with total professionalism and tact."
-Mark P
Our Expertise in Freezing Orders in Divorce
At NjP Solicitors, we act quickly and decisively when assets are at risk during divorce. A freezing order is a serious legal step, often made without notice, and it requires careful preparation, strong evidence, and sound legal judgment.
With over 18 years of experience in family law and more than 25 years of legal expertise overall, our team of fixed fee divorce lawyers provides clear, strategic advice when you need it most. We regularly advise on freezing injunctions involving property, bank accounts, investments and business interests, including cases involving international assets.
We’re not just here to process paperwork. We’re here to fight your corner and secure a financial settlement that protects your future. If a freezing order is right for your case, we will move fast and guide you through every stage with confidence and clarity.
Who Needs a Freezing Order?
You may need a freezing order if there is a real risk that your ex will move or dispose of assets before a financial settlement is reached. This can include selling property, transferring money into someone else’s name, or placing assets into trusts.
Freezing injunctions are often used after divorce proceedings have begun, but they can also be made in anticipation of a financial claim. The key is timing. If action is delayed, assets could be moved beyond the reach of the court. You may benefit from legal advice on freezing orders if:
Taking fast, informed action can prevent long-term financial loss and protect your right to a fair settlement.
Divorce Freezing Orders FAQs
A freezing order (also called a freezing injunction or Mareva injunction) is a temporary injunction from the court that prevents someone from selling, transferring or dealing with their assets during divorce financial proceedings. It ensures assets are preserved until a fair financial settlement is reached.
Under section 37 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973, the Family Court can make a freezing order to prevent the dissipation of assets likely to affect financial relief. In some cases, they even extend to assets abroad through worldwide freezing orders. A worldwide freezing order can extend to assets abroad, though enforcement depends on whether the foreign jurisdiction recognises and enforces UK court orders.
A freezing order can cover a wide range of assets, including:
- Property and real estate
- Bank accounts
- Business shares or interests
- Vehicles
- Investments and pensions
- Savings or upcoming compensation
- Future assets like an inheritance
If necessary, the order can apply to assets abroad through a worldwide freezing order, though enforcement may depend on the foreign country’s legal system.
You can apply through the Family Court, typically once divorce or financial proceedings have started. In urgent cases, you can apply without notifying your spouse, this is known as an ex parte application.
You’ll need to provide clear evidence, and we’ll help you prepare a strong case. After an initial court hearing, a further hearing may be held where both parties can present their sides.
The court will expect:
- A good arguable case that you’re entitled to a financial claim (this means a genuine financial entitlement, not necessarily proof that assets have already been hidden)
- Evidence of a real risk your spouse will hide or dispose of assets
- Proof that the order is proportionate and necessary
- Full and honest disclosure from you to justify the application
Our freezing order solicitors will help you gather the right documents and build a compelling case for the court.
Most freezing orders are granted for an initial period of 7 to 14 days, after which a further hearing is held. Depending on the situation, the order may be extended until a final financial settlement is reached or a court decides otherwise.
Breaching a freezing order is serious. It can lead to:
- Contempt of court charges
- Seizure of assets
- Heavy fines or even imprisonment
- Reversal of any transactions made in breach
- Adverse costs orders in ongoing proceedings
If you suspect a breach, we can act quickly to protect your interests.
Yes. These applications are complex, urgent and require strong legal arguments. The court doesn’t grant them lightly. Working with an experienced family law solicitor significantly improves your chance of success, especially if overseas assets are involved.
To obtain a freezing order, you must:
- Show a strong legal claim to matrimonial assets
- Prove a real risk your spouse may hide or dispose of those assets
- Ensure the court has jurisdiction over the assets (or apply for a worldwide order)
- Prove that the order is the best and most proportionate legal remedy
- Provide full and accurate disclosure in your application
We’ll help you meet every legal requirement and fight to protect what you’re entitled to.
Freezing orders are available to:
- People starting or involved in financial proceedings in divorce
- Foreign applicants with claims over UK-based assets
- Statutory authorities as part of enforcement action
If you believe assets are at risk, don’t wait. Speak to our team now.
Contact Our Freezing Order Solicitors
If you’re worried that your ex might be trying to hide or move assets during divorce, our specialist freezing order solicitors are here to act quickly and decisively. Whether you're looking to protect your financial interests, prevent injustice, or respond to an urgent threat, we’ll guide you with clear, confident advice every step of the way.
At NJP Solicitors, we don’t just draft documents, we deliver peace of mind. We’re straight-talking divorce solicitors & family law specialists who understand this isn’t just about legal forms, it’s about protecting your future and helping you move on with confidence.
As straight-talking divorce solicitors and family law specialists, we understand that this is about protecting what’s rightfully yours and giving you peace of mind when it matters most.
Our expert team is led by an accredited member of the Family Law Panel and a proud member of Resolution.
From our offices in Telford and Birmingham, we support clients across Shrewsbury, Wolverhampton, Stafford, and throughout England and Wales.
We take a proactive, client-first approach that keeps you informed, empowered, and in control, backed by practical, expert advice at every stage.
No matter where you're based, you'll get the same trusted service, tailored to your situation.
Here's what working with NjP looks like:
Step 1: Book a call.
We’ll let you know if and how we can help.
Step 2: Deep dive into your case
We’ll drill down into the details of your issue, and you’ll leave knowing exactly how we can help you, what your options are and how much it will cost you to instruct us to represent you.
Step 3: Get a Financial Settlement that gives you clarity
No more scouring Google trying to figure this out. Just sound, professional legal advice specific to your unique circumstances that will cut through the messy stuff, get straight to the point, and ensure the best outcome for you.
If you’re looking for a expert advice on Financial Settlements in Divorce, NJP is here for you.
Get in touch today, we listen, we care and we fight your corner.
Experts in Account Freezing Orders in Divorce
Located in the heart of Telford, Shropshire, our office is open for face-to-face consultations, offering a personal touch to meet all your legal needs.