Cohabitation Agreement Solicitors in West Sussex

If you live with your partner without being married or in a civil partnership, you may be surprised to learn that you have limited legal rights should the relationship end.

At Bennett Griffin, our experienced cohabitation lawyers can help you understand your position and put the right legal protections in place to safeguard your future.

We act for clients across West Sussex, with offices in Worthing and Chichester, providing clear, practical advice to unmarried couples buying property, starting a family, or simply planning for peace of mind.

Contact our Family Law team today by emailing info@bennett-griffin.co.uk.

What Is A Cohabitation Agreement?

A cohabitation agreement is a legal document that sets out what will happen to your finances, property, and assets if your relationship ends.

It can clarify important details such as:

• How property or rent is shared
• Who pays household costs or contributes to savings
• How belongings or joint accounts are divided
• What happens if one partner moves out or passes away

Cohabitation agreements are especially useful if you are buying a property together, one partner is contributing more financially, or you wish to avoid disputes later on.

Our cohabitation solicitors will ensure your agreement is fair, legally robust, and tailored to your circumstances.

Why You Might Need a Cohabitation Agreement

Many couples mistakenly believe that “common law marriage” gives them legal protection, but it doesn’t.

Without a written agreement, you could face uncertainty over:

• Ownership of your home
• Financial contributions or debts
• Childcare responsibilities
• Rights to pensions or inheritance

A cohabitation agreement provides clarity and reassurance, helping to prevent costly or stressful disputes if things change in the future.

How Our Cohabitation Lawyers Can Help

Our specialist family law solicitors are here to guide you through every stage of living together, from setting up an agreement to resolving issues if you separate.

We can help you:

• Draft or review a new cohabitation agreement
• Update an existing agreement as your situation evolves
• Resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation
• Advise on related legal matters, such as Declarations of Trust, Wills, and ToLATA claims

Whatever your needs, we’ll explain your options clearly and work with you to protect what matters most.

Cohabitation Disputes

When a cohabiting relationship breaks down, disagreements can arise over property, finances, or childcare.

Our team has extensive experience resolving these issues, aiming for fair, practical outcomes that reduce conflict wherever possible.

We can represent you in mediation or court proceedings, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.

Why Choose Bennett Griffin

• Experienced family and cohabitation solicitors serving Worthing and Chichester
• Tailored legal advice for unmarried couples across West Sussex
• Clear communication, fixed fees where possible, and a supportive approach
• Accredited members of Resolution, promoting constructive solutions in family law

Our approachable team combines legal expertise with genuine care, giving you the confidence to move forward knowing your interests are secure.

Contact Our Cohabitation Solicitors in Worthing & Chichester

If you’re living with your partner or planning to move in together, our team is here to help you protect your future.

Call our Worthing office on 01903 229999 or our Chichester office on 01243 256370, or email info@bennett-griffin.co.uk to arrange an initial consultation.

We’ll listen, advise, and ensure you have complete clarity about your legal rights and responsibilities.

Cohabitation Agreement FAQs

What is the difference between cohabitation and marriage?

Cohabiting couples don’t share the same legal rights as married couples. Courts have limited power to divide property or award financial support if you separate without an agreement in place.

When should we create a cohabitation agreement?

Ideally, before you move in together, but it can be made at any time. It’s beneficial when buying property, having children, or making unequal financial contributions.

Can we update or change our agreement later?

Yes. A cohabitation agreement can be amended if your circumstances change — for example, if you buy a new property or have children. Our solicitors can help you revise the document to reflect your new situation.

What happens if we decide to get married?

Your cohabitation agreement can be replaced or adapted into a prenuptial agreement. We’ll guide you through this process to ensure your rights remain protected.