Cohabitation Agreements
Unmarried couples that live together do not have the same automatic legal rights as married couples. On separation, people often find themselves not to be entitled to finances and property that they expected they would be. Please see our page on Unmarried Couples Rights for more information.
A Cohabitation Agreement is one way to try and avoid this eventuality.
What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A Cohabitation Agreement, also known as a Living Together Agreement, sets out how you will deal with financial and property issues during the relationship and also in the event of a separation.
They can help to avoid any confusion or misunderstanding during and after the relationship by clearly stating what you both agree should happen.
What does a Cohabitation Agreement cover?
A Cohabitation Agreement can include things such as:
- How you both contribute to and deal with mortgage payments or rent payments
- How you both contribute to and deal with household and other bills
- How you both contribute to and deal with debts
- Who has contributed to a property deposit when purchasing a house
- Nominating pension beneficiaries
- How assets would be divided on separation – things like cars, furniture, etc
- How joint bank accounts will be dealt with
- What would happen to your pets if you separated
- Wills and inheritance
The agreement can be tailor made to suit your circumstances.
Is a Cohabitation Agreement legally binding in England?
Whilst Cohabitation Agreements are not legally binding, they are likely to be upheld by the courts if both of you have been honest and open about your finances and assets and the agreement has been prepared in the proper manner.
If you would like to discuss an issue with one of our family law solicitors, please contact us and one of our specialist team will be happy to advise you.