Cohabiting and Unmarried Couples Lawyers

Practical Legal Advice for Cohabiting and Unmarried Couples

Living Together Without Legal Ties?

If you live with your partner but are not married or in a civil partnership, your legal rights can be limited. In the UK, there’s no such thing as a “common law marriage” which can leave many cohabiting couples without protection when it matters most. Holland Family Law offers focused, straightforward legal guidance to help you understand your rights, protect your interests and plan for the future. Whether you need a cohabitation agreement, advice on separation or support with a dispute. Speak to our cohabitation solicitors today and book your 30-minute consultation.

Legal Matters Affecting Cohabiting Couples

Cohabitation Agreements and Contracts

We draft and review cohabitation agreements to clarify finances, property ownership and shared responsibilities. Our cohabitation agreement lawyers ensure your position is protected.

Changes in Circumstance and Ongoing Legal Support

As your situation evolves whether through buying property, having children or separating, we adapt our legal advice and continue to support your changing needs.

Legal Protections for Unmarried Couples

We offer advice on your rights under UK cohabitation law, including what to expect as common law partners in the UK.

Separation Support and Asset Division

We support cohabiting couples through separation and advise on cohabiting couples’ separation rights in the UK.

Property and Financial Disputes

Our cohabitation lawyers help resolve disputes over property ownership, savings and shared financial commitments.

Parental Responsibilities and Child Arrangements

Where children are involved, we provide legal advice on parental responsibilities and contact arrangements.

STEP ONE

Initial Consultation

Meet with a solicitor for a 30-minute consultation to discuss your circumstances and goals.

STEP TWO

Legal Advice and Planning

We’ll explain your rights, assess any legal risks and recommend the best course of action.

STEP THREE

Resolution and Support

We assist with drafting agreements, managing disputes and where needed, court representation.

Who We Help

Our cohabitation lawyers support:

  1. Couples living together without being married or in a civil partnership
  2. Individuals entering a relationship who want to protect their assets
  3. Partners separating after years of cohabitation
  4. Parents needing clarity on their legal rights or obligations

Whether you’re looking for a cohabitation agreement lawyer, advice on UK cohabitation rights or guidance on separation, we’re here to help.

Book your Free No-Obligation 30-minute consultation today – Expert Legal Support is just a call away.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

From the moment I started to talk too Holland Family Law, they made me feel at ease with the possible situation that may be in store for me.  They answered all my questions with exceptional professionalism and clarity and with a sympathetic ear.  Thank you for your help.  I would recommend your firm thank you again.

Mr P, Leicester, December 2024

Holland Family Law have been fantastic on helping me deal with my divorce. They have guided me at every stage and explained the process to me so that I felt empowered throughout the whole process. They have always been at the end of the phone and respond to emails promptly which has put me at ease at such a difficult time. They were brilliant at explaining things in such a way so that I understand and can make informed decisions. I would highly recommend the whole firm.”

Ms BC, Lincs, February 2025

Just cannot thank you enough for all the help and support provided by the HFL Team, not just for me but especially for my daughters too. Thank you so much, it’s all much appreciated.

Mr F, Leicester, July 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

No. In the UK, cohabiting couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples, regardless of how long they’ve lived together.

A cohabitation agreement sets out how you and your partner will handle finances, property and other matters during your relationship and if it ends.

If they’re properly drafted and both parties have taken independent legal advice, they’re likely to be upheld in court.

Yes. Agreements can be revised as circumstances change, such as buying property or having children.

No. In England and Wales there’s no legal recognition of a “common law marriage.” Cohabiting couples do not automatically gain rights to income, assets, pensions or next-of-kin benefits.

Not automatically. If you’re not named on the title, you will need to prove your financial contributions, such as towards the mortgage or significant renovations. Having a formal declaration of trust at the time of purchase can also help establish your share.

A cohabitation agreement clearly sets out financial arrangements, property ownership and responsibilities during the relationship and in the event of separation. It can help prevent disputes and provide clarity similar to a prenuptial agreement.

Unmarried fathers automatically gain parental responsibility if they are named on the child’s birth certificate. If not, this responsibility can be obtained through a formal agreement or a court order.

Evidence such as bank statements, proof of mortgage payments, receipts for home improvements or a declaration of trust can help demonstrate your contribution and potential entitlement to equity.

If you cannot reach an agreement, seeking legal advice is important. Mediation may help but if that fails, a court can decide based on the evidence of contributions and fairness.

There’s no automatic right to financial support for cohabitants. Applications for support are limited and usually relate to arrangements for children or agreements made during the relationship.

Disputes are often resolved first through negotiation or mediation. If these options do not work, legal action may be necessary to reach a binding agreement or court order.

Talk to Holland Family Law

Unmarried couples often don’t realise the legal gaps until it’s too late. Whether you’re moving in together, separating or need advice about your rights as common law partners in the UK, clear legal support makes all the difference. Book your 30-minute consultation with a cohabitation lawyer today.

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