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Cohabitation Agreements Specialist cohabitation solicitors

Couples who live together without marrying or entering into a civil partnership have fewer rights than married couples, should they separate. Many cohabitating couples, unfortunately, believe that they are in a ‘common law marriage’ but unmarried couples do not acquire any legal status between them, no matter how long they have been together.

Putting a cohabitation agreement in place will ensure that both parties know what they are entitled to and what their financial situation is. It can also help prevent disagreements from arising if an agreement is set out in writing.

At Heald Solicitors, we can draw up a cohabitation agreement that helps protect your interests and rights. We will advise you about the content of the agreement before you sign it so that you fully understand the implications.

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What will go in a cohabitation agreement?

You can choose what to put into a cohabitation agreement and we will ensure that you have a bespoke agreement tailored to your unique circumstances. The following issues are often included:

  • What will happen in respect of property ownership, to include property owned previously and property bought or lived in together. Provision can also be made for how future property is to be owned, subject to review if circumstances change
  • Financial provisions for children and specifying living arrangements post-separation
  • Ownership of savings, money, and bank accounts
  • Who will pay the mortgage or rent
  • Payment of other bills
  • Responsibility for debts
  • Ownership of valuable items such as cars, jewellery and art
  • Whether pensions will be divided
  • What will happen to pets
  • How household items will be divided
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Is a cohabitation agreement legally binding?

Although a cohabitation agreement is not legally binding, if it has been properly drawn up and is fair and reasonable, making adequate provision for both parties, then the court will generally adhere to its terms if asked to make an order. A cohabitation agreement may also hold more weight if both parties have received independent legal advice as to its content.

It is therefore important to ensure the following procedure is followed when entering into a cohabitation agreement:

  • Both parties fully disclose all of their assets to each other before signing
  • Both parties must take independent legal advice as to the implications of the agreement before signing

If you are already living with someone and you wish to enter into a cohabitation agreement, this is possible and recommended, particularly in the light of any major changes in your circumstances such as the purchase of a property together or the birth of a child.

Keshini Rajendra
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For expert advice on cohabitation agreements, contact our team of family solicitors

Our family law team are experienced in negotiating and drafting cohabitation agreements and will work with you to ensure your rights and interests are protected for the long term.

While our office is in Milton Keynes, we are experienced in working with clients throughout England and Wales, often remotely, meaning that you can expect the same expert legal advice and excellent client care wherever you are located.

If you would like to speak to one of our family law solicitors, please get in touch with our legal expert Keshini Rajendra .

01908 662 277
[email protected]
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Why choose Heald Solicitors to be your Milton Keynes family law solicitors?

Our family law services are designed to help people in Milton Keynes and the surrounding areas to easily handle their legal issues.

Our highly experienced family solicitors advise on all matters, including divorce, marriage and civil partnerships, cohabitation agreements, pre-nuptial agreements, children’s issues such as parental responsibility and child contact arrangements, and financial provision after a relationship breakdown. We also advise on other related aspects of family law, such as adoption, surrogacy and domestic violence injunctions.

We understand that dealing with family law matters can be daunting and emotionally challenging for our clients, and we work hard to find the best solution for their circumstances.

Heald Solicitors is a law firm dedicated to helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome when it comes to family law issues. Our solicitors will work hard on your behalf, offering comprehensive legal advice at every step to ensure you receive the support you need during this difficult period.

Our family lawyers are in Milton Keynes, but our leading reputation means that we also deal extensively with clients from the surrounding areas and beyond, communicating remotely where necessary.

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Our Legal Expert Keshini Rajendra

Get to know us wih a call back, at a time that suits you. Let us offer some guidance and direction to start your journey with Heald Solicitors today.