Despite greater numbers of couples choosing not to get married, it is still not widely known that couples who live together do not have the same legal rights as married couples or civil partners, even if they have been together for a significant period of time. In law there is no such thing as “common law husband or wife”.
This means that someone could be left in a very difficult and vulnerable position if their relationship breaks down, particularly if the family home is in one person’s name or if there are children that need to be provided for if the relationship has ended.
Anyone in a cohabiting relationship should consider having a Cohabitation Agreement drawn up which can deal with the arrangements whilst you live together as well as putting in place an agreement as to what should happen if the relationship comes to an end.
