Duncan Lewis Divorce Law Director Discusses the Risks of Hiding Assets in The Telegraph (20 March 2025)

Duncan Lewis family law director Mandeep Benning has shared her perspective on the case of a mother who protected benefits by giving her fortune to her two daughters.

Camilla Bains lost a battle with her two daughters after handing them her £1m - plus fortune to avoid missing her benefits.

Camilla set fire to her papers proving she owned her £800,000 home, and sent her £295,000 divorce settlement to her children. Suing at the Central London County Court, Mrs Bains claimed that the two sisters had “colluded to make up a story” to keep her out of her wealth.

Following a two-week trial, Judge Nigel Gerald ruled Mrs Bains has no claim to the return of the house and money. The judge claimed “she wanted to get shot of this property so she could protect her benefits”

Experienced divorce specialist  said that the story clearly demonstrated the importance of being honest about assets,

Mandeep said: “The deprivation of assets or capital is where you reduce your capital to make yourself eligible for benefits- which is what she’s done’.

She added “the courts ae incredibly reluctant to leave either party requiring state benefits if there are marital assets that can be used to meet their needs”.

To read more about the case and Mandeep’s thoughts on the matter, you can access The Telegraph article here. The story is beh-nd a paywall, accessed via a free trial.

About Mandeep Benning

Admitted to the Roll of Solicitors in 2010, Mandeep Benning’s professional practice encompasses various aspects of Family law, with extensive experience in advising and assisting clients through financial applications within divorce, judicial separation and civil partnership dissolution, as well dealing with private law children act proceedings. Mandeep has amassed substantial expertise in cases involving high new worth and high profile clients, addressing intricate and multifaceted matters.

For specialist family legal advice, email Mandeepkb@duncanlewi.com or telephone 02079238520.

About Duncan Lewis Solicitors

Duncan Lewis Solicitors is a leading UK law firm, recognised for its excellence across a broad spectrum of legal services. Ranked Top Tier in Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, the firm was named Law Firm of the Year at the LexisNexis Awards 2024, following its win in the same category at the Modern Law Awards 2023. Duncan Lewis’ is currently the LexisNexis Family Law of the Year 2024/2025 (London).