The myth of common law marriage

The term “common law marriage” is frequently used within society to refer to couples who live together but are not married. There is, however, no such thing. It is therefore not surprising that when unmarried couples separate, the law can appear confusing and, at times, complicated. 

Unlike married couples, unmarried couples are not under any financial obligation to support one another. This can cause difficulties upon a separation, particularly if there is property and/or children involved. It is therefore extremely important to ensure proper arrangements/agreements are put in place at the start of a relationship. 

Couples who live together but are not married should almost always consider entering into a cohabitation agreement; this is a document which can regulate the financial and/or living arrangements both during the period a couple lives together and in the, hopefully unlikely, event the relationship comes to an end. The existence of a cohabitation agreement can help ensure that any separation is dealt with swiftly and amicably. Perhaps, just as importantly, they can also be useful to avoid expensive legal bills!  If you would like further information about cohabitation agreements please contact me on 01245 453846 or alternatively you can email me at [email protected]