Cohabitation Disputes
More and more couples are now choosing to live together, often without much thought for the legal and financial consequences. Many do not realise that the concept of the "common law husband" or "common law wife" is an urban myth.
Changes in the law are expected soon, but at the moment cohabiting couples are largely treated as legal strangers. There can be unexpected and uncomfortable consequences when a relationship breaks down and these can be quite complex cases to resolve.
Disputes will often involve the extent of the parties' respective entitlements to ownership and/or occupation of the home as well as financial support for the children. There is no special legal regime governing cohabitation as there is for married couples, and all issues relating to property and finances, are governed by the general rules of trust and property law. If a negotiated agreement cannot be reached it is possible in appropriate cases to seek the assistance of the Court.
Issues relating to children are more straightforward in that the Children Act does not distinguish between the children of married and unmarried parents. The welfare of the children is the paramount consideration in all cases.
We have considerable experience and expertise in this area and can advise you on all aspects of the breakdown of your relationship.
