Common law marriage…you may be surprised to learn that legally there is no such thing.
Whilst cohabitation is becoming an increasingly popular living arrangement in the 21st century the law is taking some time to catch up and continues to afford more security to couples who are in a marriage or Civil Partnership than those who are not. This is the case whether they are couples of the same or opposite sex.
Most people do not realise that there are no "equal rights" between cohabiting couples. It is also a commonly held but mistaken belief that one party can acquire rights simply because of the length of cohabitation. Cohabiting couples do not have any more legal rights than flat mates, friends, or siblings who live together and certainly do not have anywhere near the protections afforded by law to married couples or those in a Civil Partnership. This can cause significant difficulties when a cohabiting relationship breaks down as the laws governing cohabitation can be varied and complex.
We are able to advise on all aspects of cohabitation both at the outset of the relationship and also in the event of a relationship breakdown. We can also work with you on how to avoid cohabitation issues arising in the future by entering into cohabitation agreements as soon as cohabitation begins.
If you are embarking upon a cohabiting relationship and especially if you are buying property together or intending to have children we would strongly recommend that you obtain legal advice. Please consider the Cohabitation section of our website and if you are interested in finding out more then please feel free to call our Family Team and we will happily discuss it with you, free of charge and without obligation.
As we say, we are always there for people and families who are in our PURPLE LEGAL scheme. We invite you to join PURPLE LEGAL now. By joining PURPLE LEGAL, you can have all your legal enquiries answered free of charge by simply booking a SolicitorSlot for a time and date that suits you. Alternatively if you wish to speak to us now, please click on "Please Contact Me Now” or call us on 0845 567 5000. We look forward to always being there for you.
