Practical advice on protecting your position before, during and after living together.
Many couples are surprised to learn that living together does not give the same legal protection as marriage or civil partnership. If a relationship ends, disputes can arise about property, contributions, children and day-to-day financial arrangements.
We advise unmarried couples on how to reduce uncertainty and record clear arrangements from the outset. We also help clients resolve disputes following separation, particularly where a home is jointly owned, one person has contributed more than the other, or children are involved.
Cohabitation agreements
A cohabitation agreement can set out how you and your partner intend to manage property, household costs, savings, debts and other financial arrangements while living together, and what should happen if the relationship ends.
A well-prepared agreement can reduce the scope for misunderstanding and provide a clear framework at a time when emotions are already under strain. It is particularly useful where one party is contributing a larger deposit, where there are children from a previous relationship, or where one partner owns the property in their sole name.
Advice on separation
If you have already separated, we can advise on ownership and occupation of the family home, disputes over beneficial interests, child arrangements, parental responsibility and financial support for children.
Where agreement is possible, we will work to achieve a sensible and durable outcome without unnecessary conflict. Where there is a dispute, we will explain your options clearly and act firmly to protect your position.
When to seek advice
- Before moving in together
- Before buying a property together
- When one party is making a larger financial contribution
- When there are children or blended family arrangements
- When a relationship has broken down and there is disagreement about property or finances
If you are living together, planning to move in together or facing separation, contact Arthurs Solicitors for tailored advice.
Discover more of our services
Welcome to Arthurs
When relationships break down, obtaining the right legal advice early can make all the difference.
Divorce
Divorce, Dissolution and Separation - clear advice on the legal process, finances and next steps.
Unmarried Couples
Living together does not give the same legal protection as marriage or civil partnership.
Children
Support with child arrangements, urgent applications, & specialist handling of complex children matters
Change Of Name
Practical support with change of name deeds, including name changes following divorce, separation or civil partnership dissolution, and issues involving children’s names.
Domestic Abuse
Urgent, sensitive advice on protective orders and immediate safety steps.
Finance
We combine clear legal advice with practical guidance, helping clients understand the process.
Wills, Probate & Estate Administration
Wills, Probate, Estate Administration, Estate Planning, Trust Creation and Administration
Independent Legal Advice
We can advise you on the legal effect of the document, before deciding whether to proceed.
Court Protection & Powers of Attorney
Both provide legal authority to make decisions for someone who cannot manage their own affairs.