If you’re in a long-term relationship but not married or in a civil partnership, you may assume you have similar legal rights to a married couple. But in the UK, that’s not how it works. The idea of a "common law marriage" isn’t recognised in law. Cohabiting partners don’t have automatic legal claims to property, [...]
When unmarried couples live together, they often share financial responsibilities, property and other assets. However, if the relationship breaks down, dividing these assets and determining legal rights can become complicated. Unlike married couples, cohabitees do not have the same legal protections upon separation, making disputes over property, finances and living arrangements more common. Why Do [...]
In the same week that the legal age of marriage was changed to 18, a new study found that marriage is ‘going out of fashion’. More couples are choosing to live together without tying the knot. This has several legal implications if a cohabiting couple splits. That’s why cohabitation agreements are more crucial than ever. [...]
The Schedule 1 to the Children Act 1989 enables financial orders to be made for the benefit of children. Such financial orders tend to be reserved for a parent not married to their partner, leaving them unable to seek a financial remedy following a separation under the 1973 Matrimonial Causes Act. […]
In the final part of the Family Lawyer Leicester FAQs, three part series, I clarify the legal rights of unmarried couples and property assets. A lot is said about the division of property following a relationship breakdown between unmarried partners, but let’s separate the fact from the fiction and establish exactly where you stand in [...]
In part one of this series, I set the record straight on the finances of unmarried couples following a split. In part two, I outline the legal rights of cohabiting couples and children following a relationship breakdown. […]
The legal rights of unmarried couples are the cause of much confusion. In the event of a relationship breakdown, many unmarried partners are of the view that they are entitled to 50% of any assets held by their other half. Unfortunately, UK family law affords you no such luxury. So, what are your legal rights, [...]
As family lawyers Leicester based, we understand that the breakdown of a marriage or civil partnership leaves you feeling raw. This is most evident when former couples look to settle financial obligations and the division of assets, which are often the fuel for a bitter feud. […]
