Lucas and his partner, Kevin McGee, celebrated their civil partnership 18 months ago, having been together for four years before the ceremony. The split is said to be amicable.
This is the first time a high-profile wealthy gay couple have dissolved their legal union.
If the matter goes to court, it may well be seen as a test case. Lucas’ personal fortune is estimated to stand anywhere between £10m and £20m. Mr McGee’s assets are believed to be considerably less.
The rules on dissolution of civil partnerhsips are broadly the same as those on divorce, including those relating to financial settlements. Although Lucas and McGee’s civil partnership itself was a short one, the court would be likely to add on the period of cohabitation prior to their ceremony when looking at the length of their relationship, and how to divide the couple’s assets. Mr McGee can expect a share of Mr Lucas’ fortune, and possibly maintenance for a short period of time. As with divorce, the courtrs can order payment of lump sums, transfer of property between the couple, maintenance and pension sharing.
It is not known whether Lucas and McGee signed a pre-civil partnership agreement (equivalent to a pre-nup). If they did then that is likely to be given significant weight by the court. Recent cases have shown the increasing acceptance by the judiciary of pre-nuptial agreements provided that they are fair to both parties and certain safeguards are met.
Meredith Thompson