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29 Apr, 2024
Posted By: FDC Law
What happens if a cohabiting couple separates?
Want to talk? Request ConsultationSharing a home with your partner can be an exciting and meaningful step forward. It often represents the beginning of a new phase in your relationship. However, it’s wise to think about practical and legal matters in case circumstances change in the future.
Couples who live together do not have the same legal rights as married or civil partnership couples. In England and Wales, there is no legal status known as “common law marriage,” regardless of how long a couple has cohabited.
Understanding where you stand legally and putting clear arrangements in place early on can help avoid uncertainty and protect both parties if the relationship later breaks down.
Do You Need a Cohabitation Agreement?
A Cohabitation Agreement is a formal arrangement that explains how matters will be dealt with if a cohabiting relationship comes to an end. By setting expectations in advance, it can reduce uncertainty, prevent disagreements, and limit the risk of expensive legal disputes.
- An agreement may include provisions covering:
- Ownership of assets and finances and how they would be divided
- Responsibility for household expenses and outstanding debts
- The treatment of any shared bank accounts
- Arrangements for child maintenance
A Cohabitation Agreement can be put in place either before you move in together or at any point during the relationship. In both cases, it provides an effective way to safeguard the interests of both parties.
How We Can Help
Whether you are about to start living together or have already shared a home for some time, we can help you prepare for the future with clarity and peace of mind.
Our skilled family law team can:
Provide straightforward guidance on your legal rights and obligations
Create a bespoke Cohhabitation Agreement to suit your individual circumstances
Assist you if your relationship has broken down and you require support with financial or property issues
