The Government has completely ignored the advice of the Law Commission in their changes to the Matrimonial Property
laws, says Opposition Women's Affairs spokesperson Anne Tolley.
"The changes to the law will force more women into the courtroom, severing the clean break principle.
"The increased judicial discretion and lack of certainty that will result from this legislation will be to the detriment
of women.
"As the Commission's report on Women's Access to Justice recommends, we should be encouraging estranged couples to
resolve their separation outside of the courtroom. Not forcing them in.
"Women need to know their rights and have clear rules established as to their entitlement. It costs money, time and is a
huge emotional strain for women, and their children, to drag relationship break-ups through the courts.
"Lawyers will be the only winners with this legislation," Mrs Tolley said.
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