Living Together & Cohabitation

Many co-habiting couples do not realise that if their relationship breaks down, or one of them dies, they are not afforded the same legal protection as if they had been married. This is so even if they have been living together for a long time or have children. The concept of the ‘common law’ wife is a myth.

Our expert team of Family Law specialists can advise on how best to protect yourself and your family in the event of a relationship breakdown or the death of you or your partner.

We will consider issues relating to your co-ownership of property. Many couples do not appreciate that if the family home is in one party’s sole name that party can require the other to leave at any time and, on death, the property will, in the absence of a valid will, pass to the deceased’ next of kin, who could be an existing spouse, a minor child or a distant/estranged relative.

We will consider whether you and/or your partner need to make wills.

We will also consider the benefits of a Cohabitation Agreement (also known as a Living Together Agreement) which has legal effect and which can define your and your partner’s rights and obligations.

A Cohabitation Agreement can be used to make clear the ownership of assets, evidence parental or third party contribution, identify responsibility for debts and remove conflict in the event of a relationship breakdown. This is particularly important in high asset cases where the costs of litigation can be astronomical and the outcome uncertain, depending on evidence of things said many years past. If you have children or personal wealth to protect, including business interests or investments and property, a Cohabitation Agreement can help safeguard them for the future.

Our expert team of lawyers will draft a bespoke Cohabitation Agreement tailored to your own situation which protects your assets against separation or unexpected bereavement.

Like to talk about Living Together & Cohabitation?

What clients say

"A very diverse and empathetic team, all clearly working effectively together. In an area that is very grey. They explore all options and find an effective way around them."

Chambers & Partners 2025

"They are a force of a team who are rapidly growing. They are well respected, covering a wide range of family work, and are known for being thorough, knowledgeable and approachable."

Legal 500 2025

"Geldards have an exceptional family department, with highly competent lawyers at every level from the most junior up to partner level. Excellent legal advice at very reasonable prices"

Legal 500 2024

"I could not have asked for a stronger, more supportive team"

Chambers & Partners 2024

"Your approach has been thoughtful, thorough and sympathetic. You have been 'down to earth' in explanations of legal matters and made me feel very comfortable in discussions involving potentially contentious issues."

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"You are without question one of the very best firms I have dealt with over many years of needing to seek advice from many global law firms. You are extremely knowledgeable, insightful and fill a client with confidence."

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"Without you, my circumstances would definitely be much different to what they are now. You impressed me with your knowledge, kindness and patience. Geldards is an extremely professional firm, whilst remaining completely approachable…..nothing is ever too much trouble."

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