Co-Habitation

More and more couples are living together without marrying.  Unfortunately, the law still does not recognise the relationship between co-habiting couples to any significant degree.  Often, therefore, when co-habiting couples separate it can result in an unfair outcome, especially where children are involved.

We can offer advice prior to co-habitation so that you can be made aware of your rights and obligations and can prepare an agreement which clearly sets out the rights that will apply in the event of your relationship coming to an end.

When children are involved they may have their own claim in relation to property and other finances.  This includes making an application to the Court to transfer the property until the children grow up or obtain a lump sum to assist in their support or in order to purchase alternative accommodation for them.  This type of application to the court is still relatively unusual even though it can be a very useful way of providing financial security for the children while they are young.