News and Blog
A recent YouGov survey has revealed that the urban myth that unmarried couples – “common law partners” – have the same rights when they separate as married ones, was thought to be true by 47% of people questioned.
The apparent discrepancy in the law does not only apply to couples that are separating after living together, it also applies to intestacy law (i.e. when there is no Will left) when a partner dies.
Some forcefully argue that any change in the law to put cohabiting couples on a similar footing to that of married ones (or for that matter civil partners) could undermine the need for a commitment to a relationship, as represented by marriage. However, others would argue that the law needs to reflect the standards of modern society, and in that context and in the cases of cohabitees, the law does not do this currently and can be seen as treating them unfairly under outdated laws.
Whilst changes in the law have been proposed, a planned change was dropped in the run up to the 2015 General Election and until any change is implemented these differences will continue. Reform to this area of the law is not particularly vote catching which may sadly be the reason why the rights of cohabiting couples have continued to lag behind those of married couples and civil partners.
If you are interested in creating a cohabitee agreement or would like any other legal advice on the rights of unmarried couples please contact us or call 01452 411601.
Do I need a solicitor to buy a piece of land?
At WSP, our commercial property solicitors handle all matter associated with buying a piece of land. Commercial Property Solicitors will have responsibilities such as: reviewing the contract for sale, preparing...
Gazumping and gazundering – perils in an uncertain market
Research suggests that nearly a third of recent sellers have suffered gazundering, which property pundits attribute to a downturn in the market. But, in some areas, the lack of suitable...
Why do Solicitors require source of funds in property transactions?
When your solicitor asks for bank statements dating back months, please believe us when we say they are not just being difficult! Gemma Francis, a Conveyancer in WSP Solicitors’ Residential...
Contact our office
Get in touch
