Divorce is a life-changing event, and when your family’s wealth is held in trusts or spread across several countries, the process can feel daunting. Alvina Collardeau’s divorce from Michael Fuchs is a powerful example of how English courts approach these challenges. If you’re facing a similar situation—perhaps unsure about trusts, offshore accounts, or your rights—these lessons can help you feel more confident and prepared.

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1. Trust Structures Don’t Guarantee Protection in Divorce

Michael Fuchs relied on a network of offshore trusts and complicated arrangements, hoping these would keep assets out of reach. However, the English court was not swayed by the legal paperwork alone. Judges look at the reality of who controls and benefits from the assets, not just the names on the documents. If your spouse is the one making decisions, enjoying the income, or using the properties, the court will see through the structure and treat those assets as part of the marital pot.

This means you don’t need to be intimidated by talk of “trust law” or offshore vehicles. The court’s job is to ensure a fair outcome, and it will not allow technicalities to defeat justice. If you suspect assets are being hidden or shielded, raise your concerns and know that the court has the power to investigate and act.

2. Full Disclosure Is Essential—Even for Complex Assets

In Alvina’s case, both parties were required to provide detailed evidence of all their assets, including those held in trust or located overseas. The process can be frustrating, especially if you haven’t been involved in managing the family’s finances. Start by gathering anything you can—bank statements, property deeds, emails, and even notes from conversations about money or investments.

If you’re unsure where to begin, make a list of all the properties, accounts, and investments you know about. Ask for copies of documents, and don’t be afraid to request information from your spouse or their advisers. The more you can show the court, the better your chances of a fair settlement. Remember, the burden is on both parties to be open and honest, and the court can draw negative conclusions if someone tries to hide the truth.

3. International Properties Add Complexity, Not Immunity

Michael and Alvina’s marriage included homes in London, Paris, New York, Miami, and other locations. While this international spread made enforcement more complicated, it did not prevent the English court from making orders about those assets. The court can require a spouse to sell, transfer, or account for properties abroad, even if local laws are different.

However, enforcing these orders may take extra time and effort. You might need to work with lawyers in other countries or deal with unfamiliar legal systems. Be patient and persistent—just because an asset is overseas doesn’t mean it’s untouchable. The court’s priority is fairness, and it will do what it can to ensure you receive what you’re entitled to, even if it takes additional steps.

4. Non-Compliance and Evasion Can Backfire

Throughout the proceedings, Michael Fuchs tried to avoid the court’s orders by selling properties and diverting proceeds to associates. The judge was clear: such tactics are not only unfair, but they can lead to serious consequences. The court criticised Michael’s behaviour and made it clear that attempts to frustrate justice would not succeed.

If you’re worried your spouse might try something similar, keep detailed records of what you know and report any suspicious activity to the court. The law gives judges wide powers to enforce their orders, including freezing assets, ordering sales, or even pursuing committal proceedings for contempt. Honesty and cooperation are always the best approach—trying to hide or delay will only make things harder in the long run.

5. You Don’t Need to Be a Financial Expert to Protect Yourself

Alvina Collardeau’s success was not due to financial expertise, but to her organisation, persistence, and willingness to ask questions. You don’t need to understand every detail of trust law or international finance. What matters is keeping good records, seeking help when you need it, and staying engaged in the process.

If you feel overwhelmed, break things down into manageable steps. Start by listing what you know, gathering documents, and asking for clarification when something isn’t clear. The court is there to protect fairness and the welfare of children, not just those with financial knowledge. Trust yourself to learn as you go, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support or advice.

Conclusion

Divorce involving trusts and international properties can seem overwhelming, but you are not alone. The English court’s priority is fairness, and you have the right to a clear, honest settlement. Take inspiration from Alvina Collardeau’s story: gather evidence, ask questions, and trust that the law is designed to protect you and your children.