My son and his ex-wife owed many debts jointly from their marriage. Being the male partner I understand he becomes automatically responsible for them. I’ve been paying off one debt of £1,000 at £50 a month. I missed one payment, and the company is now saying my next payment must be £100 or they will issue court proceedings. Can they refuse to accept my money?
It’s not true to say that the “male partner” becomes responsible for marital debts. The creditors will go after whoever they think is most able to pay. As regards your payment difficulties, the creditor is unlikely to refuse any money you send. They will have to decide whether they will get their cash quicker by taking your son to court. They will be aware that, if you were to stop paying, they may get nothing at all.