They would happen anyway as part of any divorce settlement and may get more if you have children.

Tax planning really should not be a reason to go contracting. You can get more money by moving to another permanent job elsewhere.

Valid reasons to me for going contracting would be to remain technical, to continue learning new technologies, to avoid permie politics and appraisals (which is why I contract)..

You probably wont be able to find a permanent job that pays as well as contract job, at the same skill levels.

If we ever split up, I'd give her at least half of my money to look after my children :-)