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Cohabitation

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Home/ Family Law Cohabitation Rights

Introduction

Living Together? Let’s Make Sure You’re Protected

Moving in with a partner is an exciting step. It’s a time full of new beginnings—but it’s also worth thinking about how to protect yourself if things don’t go as planned.

 

Unlike married couples, cohabiting partners don’t have automatic legal rights. There’s no such thing as a “common law marriage” in England and Wales—no matter how long you’ve lived together.

 

That’s why it’s important to understand your rights and consider putting clear agreements in place from the start.

What Happens If You Separate?

If your relationship ends, the law treats cohabiting couples very differently from married ones:

  • You don’t have an automatic right to your partner’s property or assets
  • Each person keeps what’s in their own name
  • Joint assets are divided equally
  • There’s no right to financial support from your ex-partner (except for child maintenance)

However, if you’ve made financial contributions or agreements during your relationship, you may still have a claim. We can help you understand your position and what steps to take.

 

 

 

 

Why Consider a Cohabitation Agreement?

A Cohabitation Agreement is a legal document that sets out what happens if your relationship ends. It can help avoid confusion, conflict, and costly disputes.

It can cover:

  • Who owns what (and how it will be divided)
  • How bills and debts are shared
  • What happens to joint bank accounts
  • Child maintenance arrangements
  • Any other financial agreements

You can create a Cohabitation Agreement before or after moving in together. Either way, it’s a smart step to protect both of you.

 

How We Can Help

Whether you’re just moving in or have been living together for years, we’re here to help you plan ahead with confidence.

 

Our experienced family law solicitors can:

  • Draft a Cohabitation Agreement tailored to your needs
  • Offer clear advice on your rights and responsibilities
  • Support you if your relationship has ended and you need help resolving financial or property matters
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For legal advice on cohabitation rights

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