Co-habiting with a new partner

Hi
I''m new to the forum so forgive me if my question has been asked a hundred times.

I separated from my husband 3 1/2 years ago after years of abuse. He left the marital home after a protection order was served, and he has paid the mortgage on/off ever since (running into arrears so an amount had to be capitalised)- he does NOT pay child maintenancefor his 2 children. I agreed to allow him to divorce me on two years separation as I couldnt face mud-slinging or the children finding out their dad had been violent.

We have both filled out a financial disclosure, on which he has declared his new partners earnings. However, my partner does not yet live with me, despite the fact we are having a baby. He earns little and lives with his dad as he couldnt afford the rent on his flat.

I have receieved a letter from my ex''s solicitor demanding to know details of my partner, i.e, earnings, assets (none!). As Im having problems with my pregnancy we had discussed him moving in with me, but it would mean a lot of travelling to work for him, which would finacially wipe him out so he would not be able to pay anthing towrds my bills. Howver, it would at least mean we would be together when our baby is born.

If he is not contributing to my household, can my ex demand his details? Would my partners meagre £18k a year (of which he pays child maintenance to his ex)make an impact on any settlement or spousal maintenace my ex would have to pay? Would I even be entitled to any spousal maintenance if my partner moves in?

Sorry it''s so long-winded!

You are only required to diclose what *you* know of your partner''s means, and it is only relevent if you are currently living together or if you plan to do so in the foreseeable future.

it sounds as though you are planning to live together, so it is reasonable for you to disclose what you know of his finances.

what he contributes is relevent, and also whether you are supporting him (as your ex would not be expected to support your new partner, which is in effect the net result of your partner lives with you without contributing anything, and your ex pays maintenance

It is very unusual for spousal maintenance to be paid to someone who is cohabiting or has remarried