It is a common misconception to think that having lived with a partner for a certain period of time that you both acquire the same rights as a married couple. This is not the case there is no such thing as a common-law husband and wife. In fact couples who live together do not have the same rights as those who are married.
If a cohabitant wishes to make a financial claim on the breakdown of their relationship we can guide the client through what is a complex area of the law.
Areas Of Expertise
We can advise on the following matters:-
- Property ownership upon relationship breakdown to include claims under the Trust of Land & Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TLATA).
- Financial claims between parties under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1991 those issues relating to housing or other capital payments for any child of the family.
- Child arrangements upon family breakdown.
Cohabitation Agreements
A Cohabitation Agreement is a legal document that sets out the basis on which both parties have agreed to live together amongst other things financial matters and property ownership. A Cohabitation Agreement can prove invaluable in the event of the relationship subsequently breaking down as it greatly minimises the chances of contested litigation.