Unmarried Couples
Increasingly, couples choose to live together without marrying or entering into a civil partnership. While cohabitation is common, the legal rights of unmarried couples are often misunderstood. Unlike married couples, cohabiting partners do not automatically acquire the same legal protections if the relationship breaks down.
At SJE Legal Solutions, we provide clear advice to individuals who are living together, separating, or seeking to protect their financial interests when entering into a cohabiting relationship.
Legal Rights of Unmarried Couples
Many people assume that the concept of a “common law spouse” provides legal protection after long periods of living together. In reality, this is a common misconception. The law in England and Wales does not recognise common law marriage, meaning that unmarried partners may have limited legal rights when a relationship ends.
Disputes can arise in relation to:
Ownership of the family home
Financial contributions made during the relationship
Property purchased jointly or in one partner’s name
Responsibility for household expenses or debts
These issues can become complex, particularly where property or finances are shared.
Property and Financial Disputes
When unmarried couples separate, financial disputes are often centred on property ownership. Where a property is owned jointly or where one partner has contributed financially to a property owned by the other, legal advice may be necessary to determine each person’s rights.
We assist clients in resolving disputes concerning:
Ownership of property
Financial contributions to property or shared assets
Claims relating to beneficial interests in property
Negotiating financial settlements following separation
Our aim is to provide practical advice and seek solutions that minimise unnecessary conflict.
Arrangements for Children
Where unmarried couples have children together, both parents remain responsible for the welfare and upbringing of their children. Issues can arise regarding where a child will live, how much time they will spend with each parent, and decisions about their education or wellbeing.
We advise clients on:
Child arrangements following separation
Parental responsibility
Financial support for children
Applications to the court where agreement cannot be reached
Applications to the court where agreement cannot be reached
Cohabitation Agreements
For couples who are living together or planning to do so, a cohabitation agreement can provide clarity and protection by setting out how finances, property, and other arrangements will be managed during the relationship and in the event of separation.
Such agreements can help prevent disputes and provide certainty for both partners.
Our Approach
At SJE Legal Solutions, we understand that disputes between unmarried couples can involve both legal complexity and personal sensitivity. Our approach is to provide clear, pragmatic advice while working constructively to help clients reach fair and workable solutions.
SJE Legal Solutions operates in partnership with Setfords Solicitors, providing the reassurance of working within a regulated national law firm while receiving a personalised consultant-led service.
