Cohabitation Agreements & Disputes

Cohabitation Solicitors, Alton

Cohabitation commonly refers to two unrelated individuals sharing a residence without legally registering their relationship. Also frequently known as “common law” partners, people who cohabitate are often under the false impression that if they have lived together for an extended period or have children together, they are entitled to the same rights to those married or in a civil partnership.

Since those rights do not apply, it is sensible to create a cohabitation agreement as an unmarried couple to act as protection for both parties should the relationship end. Although it feels unromantic to do so, the creation of a cohabitation agreement can provide great stability between partners and can outline how debt liability, property and financial matters will be handled should the relationship end.

To speak to one of our friendly, experienced family lawyers, please call 01420 558336 or email enquiries@bookersandbolton.co.uk.

Solicitors for Cohabitation Agreements

It is a common misconception that cohabitation agreements can only be created for those in romantic partnerships, however, it is recommended that you create an agreement if you move in with a friend or family member, too.

Based in Alton, Hampshire, but with experience supporting clients across England and Wales, our family law solicitors understand the unfortunate circumstances that may arise should two people live together without a cohabitation agreement.

In the worst cases, one party could end up with nothing following relationship breakdown, illness or death, which encompasses the importance of drafting and implementing the necessary documentation.

Cohabitation Dispute Lawyers

When a cohabiting couple is experiencing a relationship breakdown, assets will not be divided in the same way as in a divorce or civil partnership dissolution. Therefore, disputes surrounding matters such as property and finances will need to be resolved by applying the relevant law surrounding trusts and property. Being involved in a dispute with a former partner can be highly stressful, especially if you do not have a cohabitation agreement in place.

Issues can quickly escalate, causing lengthy and stressful disputes which may end up in court if not handled carefully. Our specialist cohabitation dispute team has the knowledge and expertise to advise on various issues between cohabitants, including financial disagreements, disputes over property and financial provision for children. We can also advise on inheritance and claims for financial provision.

At Bookers & Bolton, our aim will always be to resolve cohabitation disputes out of court using alternative dispute resolution and collaborative law methods. However, if litigation is necessary, our family lawyers are on hand to guide you through the process to either initiate or defend an application to the court. We will work with you to ensure your legal rights are protected, resolving your dispute as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

Hampshire Solicitors for Cohabitation Agreements

At Bookers & Bolton, we understand that it can feel overwhelming and often negative to propose the creation of a cohabitation agreement to your partner. However, doing so should be seen as precautionary, and can offer similar protections to that of a Will – helping you to ensure that your loved one is protected should the worst happen.

We have extensive experience assisting clients in drafting and implementing their cohabitation agreements. We will help you to consider a plethora of aspects to ensure that the agreement is as comprehensive as possible, including the following:

• Assets and property.
• Finances, including joint bank accounts or income.
• Life insurance.
• Pets.
• Children.
• Pensions.
• Death.
• Wills and inheritance.

For legal advice from specialist family law solicitors, please contact us on 01420 558336, email enquiries@bookersandbolton.co.uk or fill in an enquiry form today. 

Our cohabitation agreement solicitors can support you with your cohabitation agreement matter, either online, via phone and video call, or face to face, where clients from our local community in Alton, Hampshire, can visit our offices.

In all cases, we will update you on your cohabitation law issue using our accessible and reliable app and portal, or through a way of your choosing.