Living Together

Financial arrangements can be the most worrying part of  relationship breakdown.  These are fundamental issues which affect every part of our lives, such as where we will live, and what we will live on.  We at bbl family law specialise in resolving these issues in a practical, client centred way.

The law treats couples who are not married very differently from those who are married, or in a civil partnership.  The menu on the left gives more detailed information.

For married couples, the courts have very wide powers.  Potentially they can deal with any property in which either of you have an interest, as well as your other capital.  They can also deal with business interests, pensions and family trusts.

The position is different for unmarried couples.  They can acquire an interest in property or assets owned by the other person but the law is generally more restrictive than for married couples.  It is a common misconception that if you live together you eventually become “common law husband and wife” – in fact, there is no such thing.  If you are not married, this can even effect your status in respect of your children.

The law for civil partners is relatively untested.  When civil partnerships were introduced, the legislation relating to married couples was largely applied to registered civil partnerships.  But these relationships may raise different issues to a married couple.

Finally, parents of a child may have a claim against each other on behalf of the child (regardless of whether the parents are married or civil partners).  The range of possible claims means it is important to take expert advice