Co-habitation Agreements - Living Together

Apart from very limited exceptions you acquire no rights by living with someone however long the period of co-habitation might be.  The law does not recognise the status of unmarried couples and it is a frequent misconception that simply by living as a couple, the relationship is classified in law as ‘common law’ marriage. 

Couples who decide to live together or purchase property can however take measures to protect their interests at the start of their relationship. If you own or are thinking of buying a property as an unmarried couple, then Symes Robinson & Lee can offer expert advice on the best way to protect your respective interests and any money that you may contribute to the property purchase. Most unmarried couples believe that the surviving partner will inherit the other’s Estate on death.  This is not correct. In situations where there is no Will, the consequences can be disastrous for the surviving partner and therefore new Wills for co-habiting partners are  crucial.

Cohabitation agreements outline the agreed principles of the relationship by both partners at the outset and providing they are drafted correctly will in certain circumstances be enforced by the Courts if the relationship breaks down. Our family teams are available to offer advice on your individual circumstances.

For more infomation please contact one of the following:

Name Position Office
Patrick Langrishe Partner Budleigh Salterton
Mark Arden LLB Hons Senior Solicitor Crediton
Christina Woollacott Senior Litigation Executive Crediton

Family