Fairness, Financial Justice and Why England Leads the Way: What the Potanina Case Means for Everyday Divorces

 
20/10/2025
4 min read

The recent Court of Appeal decision in Potanina v Potanin has made headlines — not just because of the billions involved, but because it underscores what makes the English family law system unique, fair, and, above all, protective of financially weaker spouses.

While few couples have the international wealth or corporate empires of the Potanins, the principles behind this case reach far beyond the world of oligarchs and offshore assets. They touch on something that affects many separating couples — fairness in financial outcomes after a long marriage.

The Heart of the Case

Vladimir and Natalia Potanin were married for 31 years in Russia, where, on divorce, Mrs Potanina received just 1% of their estimated fortune — around $41.5 million. While that may sound like a large sum, it represented a fraction of the assets built up during a decades-long marriage.

When she later moved to England, she sought to apply under English law for a fairer division — one that reflects our jurisdiction’s view that both partners’ contributions to a marriage, whether financial or domestic, carry equal weight.

That’s a fundamental difference between England and many other countries. Our courts do not simply look at who “earned” the money — they consider what’s equitable and fair, particularly where one spouse has sacrificed career opportunities to support the family or raise children.

Why It Matters to Everyday Divorce Cases

You don’t need to be a billionaire to face similar questions of fairness. Most couples, especially those coming out of long marriages or relationships where one person was the primary earner and the other the homemaker, grapple with how assets should be divided.

The Potanina case shines a light on key principles that apply in everyday divorce finance cases:

·       Equality of Contribution: English courts recognise that raising children, managing the home, and supporting a partner’s career are invaluable contributions that merit equal consideration.

·       Fairness Over Formula: There’s no rigid formula. Instead, the court looks at each person’s needs, resources, and future earning capacity.

·       Protection for the Financially Weaker Spouse: English law aims to ensure that both parties can move forward with financial security, rather than one being left significantly disadvantaged.

·       Jurisdictional Reach: For couples with international ties or assets abroad, this case also reaffirms England’s willingness to ensure fairness even when the original divorce took place elsewhere — though permission from the court is required.

A Reminder of Why Location Matters

England has long been known as the “divorce capital of the world”, not because it favours one side unfairly, but because it is committed to balancing the scales. The Potanina judgment may open the door to further international claims, but it also reinforces a core message: our courts strive for justice, not simply equality on paper.

For most separating couples, that means reassurance — knowing that the law looks beyond numbers to ensure outcomes that reflect real life, real contributions, and real needs.

How We Can Help

At Parachute Law, we specialise in guiding clients through financial settlements in divorce and separation — from straightforward cases involving family homes and pensions, to complex international or high-asset matters.

Our fully remote model means you can access clear, expert advice from anywhere in the world, delivered with empathy, discretion, and practical solutions.

If you’re considering divorce or are worried about a financial settlement — whether in England or with connections abroad — we can help you understand your options and ensure your future is protected.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation and find out how we can help you secure a fair financial outcome for you.

Contact Parachute Law today

If you’re facing a divorce and cryptocurrency could be involved, don’t leave it to chance. Our team of divorce solicitors offer clear, practical advice and can act quickly to secure your financial position.

Because we work fully remotely, we can help clients anywhere in England and Wales (and those abroad with an English divorce) quickly, flexibly, and cost-effectively -  without the need for office visits. We’re ready to support you wherever you are.

We’ll also guide you on additional steps – such as making or revising a Will – so your intentions are fully protected.

Contact Us Now

Contact our team today and book a free initial consultation and take the first step towards your fresh start.

Call us on: 0207 183 4547

Email us at thelegalteam@parachutelaw.co.uk

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