Many couples choose to live together before marriage and many choose not to marry at all. 2007 saw the lowest marriage rate since records began. Cohabitation, the purchase of property with a partner and the birth of a child can all have significant legal consequences.
There has been much speculation about the need for legislation in the area of cohabitants’ rights but nothing has or is presently likely to be introduced (although a Cohabitation Bill has been debated in Parliament).
Contrary to popular belief, there is no such thing in English law as a ‘common law' wife or husband. A cohabitant does not have the same rights or obligations as a spouse or civil partner however long they have lived together.
However, upon separation, cohabitation may have legal and financial consequences if the couple have children or have purchased property. Whether you are considering cohabitation, or you have been cohabiting for a long period of time, our specialist family lawyers can give you sensible advice about the benefits of entering into a cohabitation agreement.
We do not offer legal assistance pursuant to public funding (formerly known as Legal Aid) except for cases involving cross-border child abduction. All other cases handled by the Family relationships and divorce department must be privately funded.
For more information and advice about cohabitation, please contact Jane Keir on + 44 (0)20 7814 1200 or email jkeir@kingsleynapley.co.uk.
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