Unmarried couples

Choosing to live together without marrying or becoming civil partners has the advantage of convenience, but there are legal risks if the relationship breaks down. Our specialist solicitors provide expert advice to unmarried couples on a wide range of issues, such as cohabitation agreements and arrangements following separation.

When cohabitees separate, they are not protected in the same way as married couples or civil partners. There is no automatic right to share your former partner’s finances or to receive ongoing financial help from them, nor is there an equivalent ‘matrimonial’ right to stay in the family home if you don’t own an interest in the property. That is the same regardless of how long the relationship has lasted or if you have children together.

At Owen White Catlin, we work closely with our clients, helping them clearly understand their legal position as cohabitees, their options, and what a fair arrangement will involve if they separate.

Our approach is straightforward and geared towards achieving the best outcome for your circumstances. We understand the complications that can arise following a separation and the types of solutions that are often required.

Our solicitors offer:

• Guidance on the creation of a cohabitation agreement
• Using and interpretating a cohabitation agreement during a separation
• Clear advice on your rights and legal position as a cohabitee
• Support with additional arrangements following relationship breakdown, including in relation to finances and children

Disagreements and disputes following a breakup don’t need to be fought in the court. As members of Resolution, we are committed to resolving disagreements without confrontation.

Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, will be considered and offers a quicker, more cost-effective and constructive way of agreeing arrangements for the future, which can be particularly helpful where children are involved.   We offer mediation and our mediators are registered with both Resolution and the Family Mediation Council.

We pride ourselves on being transparent and clear on our fees which means you’ll know exactly what your costs will be.

Talk to one of our family solicitors today

Please get in touch to discuss your case with a member of our family law team, or to schedule a consultation. Contact us using our online enquiry form, or call us directly on one of our office numbers. Our expert team of lawyers are ready to help.