At Glaser Jones Law, our specialist cohabitation expertise can help you come to a mutually beneficial separation or pre-habitation arrangement.
Cohabitation is defined as an arrangement whereby two people live together without registering their relationship as a marriage. This is becoming increasingly common in the UK; one in five families now cohabit rather than choose to get married.
Many believe that when you move in together, you automatically get the same rights as a couple in a registered marriage or civil partnership by way of a ‘common law marriage’. Unfortunately, this status has no legal validity in England. Should you separate, you won’t have any rights to each other’s property, or to an inheritance if the worst were to happen. However, if you have had children with your cohabitation partner, you are able to claim similar rights as a married parent for the benefit of the children.
We suggest drawing up a formal agreement called a ‘cohabitation contract’ or ‘living together agreement’ before you move in with your partner. This will outline the rights and obligations of each partner and will save time, anxiety and emotional distress should things not end amicably.
Even if you don’t have a ‘cohabitation contract’, we can still provide you with assistance. Often, cohabitation disputes are caused by tenancy issues, jointly-owned possessions or children. However, we understand that each family is different, and can help you move towards a positive outcome whatever your requirements might be.
We’ll support you throughout the entire process, acting as a guide and advocate if things get tough. Our clients are very important to us, and we take steps to ensure that the legal process runs smoothly so that all parties can move on with their lives as quickly as possible.
Whether you’re creating a ‘cohabitation contract’, or administering a separation, call on Glaser Jones Law to help you find a solution that’s agreeable for all.
