At Monan Gozzett LLP, we understand that every relationship is unique, and with it comes a set of individual circumstances and shared aspirations.
As leading solicitors specialising in cohabitation agreements, we are here to guide you through the legal intricacies of living together as an unmarried couple.
Our team of seasoned professionals is committed to providing you with clear, comprehensive, and personalised advice that empowers you to make informed decisions about your future.
Whether you're seeking to protect your assets, outline financial responsibilities, or establish arrangements for potential changes in your relationship, our expertise ensures that your interests are safeguarded throughout the journey.
What Is A Cohabitation Agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and practical arrangements between unmarried couples living together or planning to live together.
This agreement serves as a comprehensive roadmap that details various aspects of the couple's shared life, primarily focusing on what should happen should the relationship end.
Cohabitation agreements are designed to provide clarity, protection, and a framework for resolving potential conflicts or disputes that may arise in the future.
By establishing clear guidelines for financial matters, property ownership, and other important considerations, cohabitation agreements help to prevent uncertainty and friction, ensuring a more harmonious and secure cohabitation experience.
What Can A Cohabitation Agreement Cover?
Our expert cohabitation solicitors will work closely with you to tailor a cohabitation agreement that reflects your unique circumstances and priorities. The agreement can cover various aspects, including:
- Property Ownership: Specify how property ownership will be divided in case of separation.
- Financial Contributions: Outline each partner's financial contributions and responsibilities during the relationship.
- Debts and Liabilities: Address how shared debts and liabilities will be managed in the event of a breakup.
- Childcare and Custody: Define arrangements for children, including custody and financial support.
- Personal Possessions: Determine how personal belongings and assets will be divided upon separation.
Cohabiting Couples Separation Rights
Navigating separation as a cohabiting couple can be complex, especially when it comes to property rights and disputes.
At Monan Gozzett LLP, we understand the intricacies of cohabitation law, including the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act (ToLATA), which plays a significant role in resolving property-related conflicts for unmarried couples as well as issues surrounding child arrangements.
Our experienced solicitors are here to guide you through your separation rights, helping you understand the legal framework and advocating for your best interests.
Contact our team today to see how our solicitors can help with your cohabitation agreement.
Call Monan Gozzett on 0207 936 6329, email info@monangozzett.com or complete our contact form at the base of this page.
Cohabitation Agreement FAQs
What does cohabiting mean?
Cohabiting is when two individuals, typically in a romantic relationship, live together in the same household as a couple without being married or in a civil partnership. Cohabitation involves sharing a living space, responsibilities, and often, aspects of daily life such as finances and household chores. Couples who choose to cohabit may do so for various reasons, including personal preference, financial considerations, cultural factors, or simply as a step before entering into a more formal legal commitment like marriage or civil partnership.
It's important to note that cohabitation, involving a shared life and responsibilities, does not carry the same legal status and rights as marriage or civil partnership. Unmarried cohabiting couples do not have the automatic legal protections and rights that come with those formal relationships. This is why many couples create cohabitation agreements to define their legal and financial arrangements in case of a separation or other life changes. If you're considering cohabitation, seeking legal advice can help you understand your rights and responsibilities while living together outside a formal legal partnership.
Can a cohabitation agreement be enforced in court?
Yes, a properly drafted cohabitation agreement can be enforced in court if certain conditions are met. These conditions include voluntary agreement, full disclosure of financial information, independent legal advice for both parties, fair terms, and a written format. While a cohabitation agreement can provide legal protection, the court's priority is fairness. If the agreement is deemed unfair or circumstances have significantly changed, the court may not uphold certain provisions. Seeking legal advice from experienced solicitors, such as those at Monan Gozzett LLP, can help ensure your cohabitation agreement is legally sound and enforceable.
Is a civil partnership better than cohabiting?
Civil partnerships offer legal recognition and protections similar to marriage, while cohabitation does not grant the same legal status. The choice between the two depends on your individual preferences and circumstances.
If you would like to speak to our expert legal team about this, or any related subject then please contact our team by phone on 0207 936 6329, Email or by completing our Quick Contact Form below.