Urgent Asset Protection

Freezing Orders in Divorce — Protecting Your Assets

If you suspect your spouse is hiding or dissipating assets during divorce proceedings, a freezing order can prevent them from doing so. We can apply urgently — sometimes on the same day.

PDA Law handles urgent freezing order applications for clients across Chester CH1/CH2, Ellesmere Port CH65, Wrexham LL11–LL14, Mold CH7, Northwich CW9 and Crewe CW1/CW2.

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Warning Signs Your Spouse May Be Hiding Assets

If you notice any of these signs, contact us immediately. Speed is critical — assets can be dissipated quickly.

Unexplained transfers of money to third parties

Sudden "loans" to family members or friends

Undervaluing business interests or assets

Selling assets at below market value

Transferring property into another person's name

Unusual cryptocurrency or offshore transactions

Sudden increase in "business expenses"

Refusing to provide financial disclosure

Closing joint accounts or moving funds

Protective Orders Available

Freezing Order (Mareva Injunction)

Prevents disposal or dealing with assets up to a specified value. Can cover bank accounts, property, investments and business interests. Available with or without notice.

Search Order (Anton Piller)

Allows entry to premises to search for and seize documents and assets. Used in the most serious cases where evidence may be destroyed. Requires strong evidence and court permission.

Disclosure Orders

Requiring third parties (banks, accountants, companies) to disclose information about assets. Used alongside freezing orders to trace hidden wealth.

Funding Your Legal Fees

Own a property? You may not need savings to fund your case.

If you jointly own the matrimonial home, a Sears Tooth agreement allows us to secure our fees against your share of the property — meaning no upfront payment is required. Fees are deducted when the property is sold or transferred. This option is particularly suited to non-working spouses or those with limited income.

Explore all funding options

We do not accept legal aid cases. PDA Law is a private client practice. All family law matters are funded privately — through direct fees, payment plans, or a Sears Tooth agreement where applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a freezing order in divorce?
A freezing order (also called a Mareva injunction or freezing injunction) is a court order that prevents a party from disposing of, dealing with or diminishing the value of their assets. In divorce proceedings, it is used to prevent a spouse from dissipating assets before a financial settlement is reached.
When would I need a freezing order?
You may need a freezing order if you have evidence or strong grounds to believe your spouse is hiding assets, transferring assets to third parties, selling property at undervalue, or otherwise trying to reduce the assets available for division on divorce. Speed is essential — we can apply urgently.
Can a freezing order be obtained without notice?
Yes. In urgent cases, the court can grant a freezing order without notifying the other party (a "without notice" application). This is appropriate where giving notice would defeat the purpose of the order — for example, where there is a risk the spouse would immediately transfer assets if they knew an application was being made.
What assets can be frozen?
A freezing order can cover any assets — bank accounts, investments, property, business interests, cryptocurrency, vehicles and other valuables. The order can be limited to specific assets or can cover all assets up to a specified value.
What is a search order?
A search order (formerly Anton Piller order) allows a party to enter premises and search for, inspect and seize documents and assets. It is used in the most serious cases where there is a real risk of evidence being destroyed. It is an extreme remedy and requires strong evidence.
Do you handle freezing order applications in Chester and Cheshire?
Yes. PDA Law handles urgent freezing order applications for clients across Chester CH1/CH2, Ellesmere Port CH65, Wrexham LL11–LL14, Mold CH7, Northwich CW9 and Crewe CW1/CW2. We can act urgently where assets are at risk.

Client Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

“Martin and the team at PDA Law made an incredibly difficult time much more manageable. Their advice was always clear, compassionate, and practical. I felt fully supported throughout.”

Rebecca H.

Family law client, Chester

* Names changed to protect client confidentiality. Testimonials reflect genuine client experiences.

Martin Dias, Family Law Executive with almost 30 years experience at PDA Law

Your Family Law Specialist

Martin Dias

Family Law Executive

Divorce · Financial Settlements · Children MattersAlmost 30 Years' ExperienceFinancial Remedy & Pension Sharing Specialist

Martin brings almost 30 years of specialist family law experience to every case — divorce, separation, financial settlements and children matters. Clients value his straight-talking honesty, patience, and genuine emotional support throughout what is often a very difficult time.

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Protect Your Assets — Act Now

If you suspect asset dissipation, contact us immediately. We advise clients across Chester CH1/CH2, Ellesmere Port CH65, Wrexham LL11–LL14 and throughout Cheshire and North Wales.