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Cohabitation

It is common for couples to live together without getting married or entering into a civil partnership - but there are still very important legal consequences of such a relationship. People who cohabit (live together) have certain legal rights - as well as obligations.

Cohabitation Agreements

We can advise on the legal consequences of living together and, where appropriate, draft a Cohabitation Agreement to formally set out the arrangement you have reached. The Agreement will be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Difficult questions can arise, for example, if you have children together, if one person has paid more towards the deposit, mortgage or rent or if the property is only owned by one of you. There are numerous other examples of complications that can arise.

It is often sensible to put into place a Cohabitation Agreement to ensure both parties are on the same page should the relationship break down.

If you are about to move in with a partner or are already living with a partner and want to formalise your financial or childcare arrangements, we can help.

Separating after living together

If you are cohabiting and you separate, it is important to take legal advice urgently. You may have the right to make certain financial claims, but there is a very strict time limit of one year for these to be raised.

You may also have questions regarding what happens with your children after separation.

If you have been living with someone and separate, we recommend you contact us as soon as possible to discuss your situation. Often everything can be sorted out quickly in a straightforward way, but where that does not occur, you must act quickly, and we can help.