Living together. Legal protection. Living together without marriage is increasingly common, but your legal rights may be different than you expect. Many couples are surprised to learn that long-term cohabitation doesn’t automatically create legal protections. Our experienced team helps unmarried couples protect their interests and plan for their future together, ensuring both partners understand their rights from the start. Understanding your rights as an unmarried couple Many couples believe in “common law marriage,” but this isn’t recognised in UK law. This means the financial protections available to unmarried partners can be limited compared to married couples, even after many years together. Without proper legal arrangements, you may have limited rights regarding property, finances, and inheritance. Our dedicated family lawyers will help you understand your position and safeguard what matters to you, ensuring you make informed decisions about your future. Protecting your future with cohabitation agreements A cohabitation agreement, also known as a living together agreement, helps protect both partners’ interests from the start. These agreements are particularly important when buying property together, sharing financial responsibilities, or blending families. Our experienced lawyers will guide you through creating an agreement that covers: Property ownership and contributions, including how the property will be divided if circumstances change Shared financial responsibilities, from household bills to mortgage payments Personal belongings and assets, including those acquired before and during cohabitation Living arrangements and housing rights Future plans and commitments, including arrangements for any children Your property and financial security Moving in together often involves significant financial decisions that can have long-term implications. Whether you’re purchasing your first home together or moving into a property owned by your partner, understanding your rights is crucial. We’ll help you understand your position and create clear arrangements that protect both partners’ interests. Our team provides straightforward guidance on: Property co-ownership arrangements, including joint tenancy and tenancy in common Protecting your financial contribution to shared property, especially unequal contributions Understanding your occupancy rights and security of tenure Managing shared finances and responsibilities, including joint accounts and bill payments Securing financial support for children, including maintenance and education costs Understanding inheritance rights Unmarried partners don’t automatically inherit from each other, unlike married couples. This can create significant difficulties during already challenging times. We’ll help you understand how to protect your partner’s future through: Making appropriate wills that reflect your wishes and protect your partner Setting up life insurance arrangements to provide financial security Creating lasting powers of attorney for health and financial decisions Planning for shared property inheritance, including tax implications Protecting your partner’s long-term security through careful estate planning How we support you Whether you’re planning to move in together or facing relationship challenges, we’ll guide you through your options with clarity and understanding. Our cohabitation specialists combine legal expertise with practical support for: Creating comprehensive cohabitation agreements that protect both partners Property ownership matters, including complex shared ownership arrangements Financial arrangements during and after cohabitation Children’s matters, including residence and contact arrangements Future planning and security, including inheritance protection Contact our experienced team today to discuss how we can help protect your future. We’ll guide you through your options with practical advice that puts your needs first, ensuring you have the protection and peace of mind you deserve. Download our fact sheet on Pre and Post Nuptial Agreements Get in touch Contact Stephanie Calthrop-Owen Partner, Head of Department Family 01737 854500 Message Connect On this page Contact our Family Law team GET IN TOUCH
