Cohabitation Agreement Solicitors

At Bennett Griffin, we understand that cohabiting couples in Sussex seek both love and legal security.

Cohabitation can be a beautiful journey, but protecting your interests, assets, and future is essential should unforeseen circumstances arise.

Our experienced team of cohabitation law solicitors is here to guide you through the process, offering professional legal advice tailored to your unique situation.

Whether you’re considering a cohabitation agreement, looking to update an existing one, or navigating the complex legal landscape after marriage or loss, we are your trusted partners.

Contact our Family Law team in Sussex today.

What Is A Cohabitation Agreement?

A cohabiting couple can enter into an agreement which sets out the couple arrangements which will apply while they live together and on the breakdown of the relationship in the UK.

The case of Sutton v Mishcon de Reya (2003) showed that a contract between cohabitants was not opposed; therefore, it does have good legal standing.

The main issues covered in a Cohabitation Agreement are:

1. Ownership of property – this includes the contents of the home;
2. Finances – how to divide the bills, including debts and dealing with joint accounts;
3. Children – maintenance and contact

These are only a few examples of what can be included, the agreement can be adapted to suit your needs.

A well-drafted Cohabitation Agreement can help cohabiting couples define their expectations and rights, promoting a sense of security and reducing the potential for future disagreements.

It is a valuable tool for ensuring that both parties are treated fairly and in accordance with the law, even without the legal framework marriage provides.

What Does Cohabiting Mean?

In the UK, cohabiting refers to two individuals who are living together in a relationship akin to marriage without being legally wed.

This includes same-sex and opposite-sex couples in a committed, long-term relationship and sharing a household.

If you are cohabiting or planning to do so, it’s crucial to consider a cohabitation agreement to safeguard your interests.

Contact Bennett Griffin

At Bennett Griffin LLP, we understand the importance of cohabitation agreements and are here to assist you.

Our experienced team of cohabitation agreement solicitors can guide you through the process, ensuring that your agreement is tailored to your specific needs and compliant with UK law.

We have two offices in West Sussex:

• Family Law Solicitors in Worthing
• Family Law Solicitors in Chichester

Contact us today to discuss your requirements and schedule a consultation to get started.

You can email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk or call our Worthing office on 01903 229999 or our Chichester office on 01243 256370.

Cohabitation Agreement FAQs

Can a Cohabitation Agreement be changed or updated?

Yes, Cohabitation Agreement can be changed or updated, provided both parties agree to the modifications. Life circumstances evolve, and your agreement should reflect these changes. Our solicitors can help you amend your cohabitation agreement to suit your current situation.

What happens if we later get married?

If you decide to marry your cohabitation partner, your agreement may become obsolete or need revision. Our expert lawyers can assist you in transforming your cohabitation agreement into a prenuptial agreement or another suitable legal arrangement, ensuring your rights and assets are protected.

Do we need to have lived together for a minimum amount of time?

There is no legal requirement in the UK for a specific duration of cohabitation to create a cohabitation agreement. Whether you have lived together for a short period or several years, a cohabitation agreement can still be established to protect your interests.

What happens to a cohabitation agreement if one of us dies?

In the unfortunate event of the death of one cohabiting partner, the cohabitation agreement may no longer be applicable. In such cases, it’s crucial to ensure that your partner’s wishes are documented in a valid will. Our solicitors can guide you on how to navigate these complex legal matters.