Practical steps to get things back on track
A sealed financial order (often called a “Consent Order”) should bring certainty: who keeps the home, how pensions are shared, when payments start, and what happens to savings and debts. If your ex-partner isn’t doing what the order requires—paying late, refusing to sign paperwork, or delaying a sale—you’re not powerless. This guide explains what counts as non-compliance, the first actions to take, the common complications, and the routes to enforce an order. It’s general information, not legal advice—if you need tailored guidance, our family team can help.
What counts as “not following” the order?
Non-compliance can be clear or subtle. Typical examples include:
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Missed or late payments of maintenance or lump sums
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Ignoring deadlines to sell or transfer a property
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Delays with pension sharing (e.g., not sending forms to the scheme)
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Refusing to provide signatures or information needed to complete steps
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Moving or hiding assets that were meant to be preserved
Spot problems early, keep notes of dates and conversations, and keep all communication in writing.
First actions: calm, clear, documented
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Re-read the exact clause. Check the deadline, the amount, and who must do what. Make sure the time has actually expired (allow a small margin for weekends/bank holidays).
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Send a firm but courteous reminder. Point to the clause, set a short, reasonable window to comply, and explain what will happen next if it isn’t done. Email plus recorded post is sensible.
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Build your file. Keep the sealed order, evidence of the breach (bank statements, emails, agent correspondence), and any costs you’re incurring because of the delay.
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Get early legal advice. A short conversation can save time and money, and may resolve things with one targeted letter.
Common complications—and how to handle them
Payments “nearly there” but always late
Agree a date for a single catch-up payment and, where the order allows, refer to interest on late sums. Keep a simple ledger of what’s due and what’s received.
Property snags
Chains collapse and buyers pull out. If the order sets a timetable for listing, reductions, or appointing a second agent, follow it. If not, try to agree practical steps and record them in writing.
Pension sharing delays
Pension Sharing Orders (PSOs) can stall if details are wrong or if the scheme hasn’t received the papers. Ask the scheme what they still need, who must provide it, and the expected timescale. Keep copies of everything sent.
Missing signatures
If documents (TR1, mortgage forms, scheme consents) aren’t being signed, a solicitor’s letter that encloses the exact form and explains the deadline can focus minds—and provides evidence if the court’s help is needed.
“New information” late in the day
If your ex raises fresh debts or missing accounts to justify delay, log the claim, ask for proof, and keep the original order timetable front and centre unless and until a variation is agreed or ordered.
Enforcement options (which route fits your situation?)
Your solicitor can recommend the most proportionate step based on the clause breached, the asset involved, and the likely outcome. Options may include:
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Attachment of Earnings Order
Deductions taken from the paying party’s wages to cover maintenance or lump sums due by instalments. -
Third-Party Debt Order
Freezing and redirecting money owed to the non-payer by a third party (for example, a bank account credit on a specific date). -
Charging Order
Securing the debt against property or certain investments. This can be paired with an Order for Sale if payment still doesn’t follow. -
Enforcement of a Property Provision
Directions compelling signature of transfer documents, compliance with sale steps, or the appointment of a person to sign on behalf of a non-cooperative party. -
Pension-related directions
Orders requiring the non-payer to supply scheme information or co-operate so the PSO can be implemented. -
Information Orders and Questionnaires
Requiring the non-payer to provide details of income, assets and employment so the court can choose the right enforcement tool.
Often, a focused solicitor’s letter that encloses the draft application you’re prepared to issue is enough to prompt compliance—saving both sides court time and cost.
Communication that helps, not harms
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Be precise, not heated. Stick to dates, amounts, and clauses.
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Propose a practical fix. Offer a short extension or a step-by-step plan if it will actually unlock progress.
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Keep everything. Your email trail and logs of missed deadlines become key if you need the court’s help.
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Think about costs. Courts look at whether a party acted reasonably. Fair proposals and early engagement can be relevant.
When is a variation or revisit sensible?
If circumstances have genuinely changed (job loss, health, a sale falling through for market reasons), a temporary adjustment or an application to vary certain parts of an order may be more realistic than pure enforcement. Take advice quickly so you understand your options and the evidence required.
Takeaway
A court order is meant to provide certainty—but if it isn’t being followed, you have practical routes to restore momentum. Start with the clause, document the slippage, communicate clearly, and pick the enforcement or problem-solving step that is most likely to work with the least collateral stress. Early advice makes a real difference.
Need help?
If your financial order isn’t being followed—or you want guidance on the quickest way forward—our family team can step in promptly. Simply call 0151 637 2034 or contact us using the form on this page.
