Living together
More couples are choosing to live together rather than marrying. However, in the event of a relationship breakdown, cohabiting couples do not have the same legal rights as couples who are married or in a civil partnership, regardless of how long they have been together.
For example, unmarried couples who live together are not entitled to ask for maintenance from each other. It can therefore be a huge risk to move in with a partner without taking specialist legal advice first.
Living Together Agreement
Betteridges can help you draw up a living together agreement (also known as a cohabitation agreement). Although not legally binding, it can help you and your partner establish some practical guidelines on important matters in a calm, fair way, rather than during the stress and emotion of any subsequent relationship breakdown. These might include:
- Finances (including day to day finances such as bill paying)
- How you deal with bank accounts, debts and joint purchases (i.e. a car)
- How property is held
- Who owns what and in what proportion
- Arrangements for children, including maintenance and contact
Getting a specialist family lawyer such as Betteridges involved will ensure that your agreement is drafted properly to full legal effect, and flag up any important issues you may have overlooked.
Next steps
Please do not delay contact us to arrange an informal chat about your situation. Call us now on 01992 505406 (International callers +44 1992 505 406) or complete our Online Enquiry Form and we will soon be in touch. Or email info@betteridges.com.
