It is important to know the answer to this question, even if you are not planning on going through a divorce.
Whoever owns the property has a right to enter it. If you both own the property then your ex-partner still has the right to enter your home.
Click here to read more about joint property ownership disputes
When can you change the locks?
- You have been threatened or intimidated
- Your partner has physically assaulted you in some way
- You have got a Court injunction against your partner, known as an Occupation Order. This order takes away their right to access your house
If the property is just in your name, you may be able to change the locks. However, your ex-partner may be able to apply for a Court Order to allow their re-entry to the property.
In cases of jointly-owned property, your former partner does have the right to come back into the property unless you have a Court Order to stop him or her from doing so.
Click here to find out more about how our Domestic Violence Solicitors can help you.
Getting divorced – need specialist solicitors?
Where possible, it is a good idea to try and be reasonable with each other and get through your divorce amicably, though sadly that’s simply not possible for all separating couples. For example, if your partner poses no threat to you it may be best to let them in the house if they want to collect some of their possessions. This reasonable behaviour may spread to other parts of the divorce process to help you both get through it with the least stress and upset.
Click here to find out more about Divorce and how our family law solicitors can help you
Geoing through relationship breakdown? Need the right legal advice? Call now
If you are considering a divorce or civil partnership dissolution, then you will need specialist legal advice you can rely on. For free initial phone advice, contact our specialist divorce solicitors today – just a quick phone call with one of our family lawyers could be enough to put your mind at rest.
Don’t delay – to safeguard your legal position, call our team now
- Just call us on FREEPHONE 0800 1404544 or one of our local office numbers;
SALISBURY (01722) 422300
FORDINGBRIDGE (01425) 652110
AMESBURY (01980) 622992
ANDOVER (01264) 364433
• Or fill in the contact form below to book a call back at a time convenient to you