Our family law team has experience of helping separating couples who were living together but not married, to reach agreement on a range of legal and financial matters. Known as cohabitation, this is a lifestyle choice for many people who prefer to live life with another without the formality of a marriage ceremony.
Many relationships last a lifetime. However some do not. When a relationship breaks down, many people still believe that they have the same rights as if they were married and often refer to the mythical “common law wife/husband”. In fact, under family law they have none of the protections available to a married couple. Although there is much talk about reviewing the current legislation, changes are not expected in the near future.
Our experience suggests that cohabitation disputes tend to be about matters such as maintenance, the division of savings and other investments and very frequently about what is to occur with the family home.
Some people will have a ‘living together agreement’ in place which will make a separation more straightforward, but they are not as commonplace as we would like.
At Ashtons Legal our family law team will work with you to ensure that a fair and appropriate settlement is reached either by agreement or by virtue of a Court Order. Our knowledge of the issues concerned means that we can provide a first rate service to you when you are experiencing difficulties and assess your options. We are also keen for all co-habiting couples to make a living together agreement. If you are about to or already live with someone but are not married, it is not too late to make a living together agreement. Contact one of our family law team to discuss how to get started.