At Haris Law Solicitors, we understand the complexities of legal rights and responsibilities that unmarried couples face. With over 4 million couples choosing to cohabit without formalizing their relationship through marriage or a civil partnership, it is important to have a clear plan in place for finances and property in the event of separation.
Unlike married couples, cohabiting couples do not have the same legal protection and rights when it comes to property and assets. It is often believed that if one partner has contributed towards the mortgage or household bills, upkeep or cared for the children of the family, that they will automatically have a right to a share of the property. However, the law is not designed for cohabiting couples and they have to rely on strict property law rules when seeking to secure an interest in the property. This can result in unfairness and hardship when unmarried couples separate.
To address these concerns, we offer cohabitation agreements that outline the financial responsibilities and distribution of assets in the event of separation. These agreements can include:
- Detailed information on the distribution of property and assets, including real estate, vehicles, personal property, and investments
- Specifics on how outgoings and household bills will be paid and by whom
- Financial support for each other during and after the relationship, including spousal support
- Financial support for children if cohabitation ends, including child support and custody arrangements
- Nomination of pension and death in service benefits, ensuring that your partner is provided for in the event of your death
It is important to note that these agreements are not legally binding, but they are given ‘heavy evidential weight’ by the English and Welsh family courts, unless considered to be unfair. To comply with the law in this country it is necessary for the agreement to be drawn up by a qualified solicitor and both parties must have received independent legal advice upon the contents.
At Haris Law Solicitors, we understand the importance of protecting your interests as an unmarried couple.