What happens when you work with a PODE? A step-by-step guide:

1 Jul

Pensions can be the trickiest part of a divorce. They’re complex, full of jargon, and often undervalued. That’s where a Pensions on Divorce Expert (PODE) steps in - to make sure things are done fairly and clearly. But what actually happens when you instruct a PODE?

Here’s what to expect, step by step:

Step 1: Decide If You Need a PODE

Not every divorce needs a PODE but if either of you has a defined benefit pension, more than £100k in pension savings, or you’re thinking about “offsetting” (swapping pension value for other assets), it’s time to call in an expert. Find out if you need a PODE by taking our quick, free and straightforward assessment here.

Step 2: Joint Instruction

A PODE must be appointed by both parties as a Single Joint Expert. This means they’re neutral and their findings can be used by both sides and the court.

You can instruct them through your solicitor
Or, if you’re representing yourself, follow the PODE’s easy-to-use process to get started

Step 3: Gather Information

You’ll need to collect documents about all your pensions. The PODE will ask for:

Pension statements
Scheme details
State Pension forecasts

They’ll also give you Letters of Authority to sign, which let them contact your pension providers directly.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

Each party pay their share of the fee. Expect an upfront fee to cover the costs of getting started.

Step 5: The PODE Gets to Work

Once all the paperwork is in, the PODE:

Analyses each pension scheme
Assesses how much of each pension is “marital”, if needed
Considers options like sharing, offsetting, or cash equivalents
Prepares a clear, court-ready report

Step 6: You Get the Report

The PODE’s report outlines fair options for dividing the pensions. It’s written in plain English, not financial gobbledygook. Your solicitor (if you have one) or the court will use this to help decide what’s fair.

Step 7: Use the Report to Agree a Settlement

The PODE doesn’t give advice, they give expert analysis. From there, you and your legal team (or mediator) can agree on a fair division based on the options the PODE has laid out.

The Bottom Line

Working with a PODE might feel like “just another step” in a long process. But it’s a crucial one - especially when pensions are a major part of your financial future. It can be the difference between fairness and lifelong regret.

Kevin Mansell-Abell