What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A Cohabitation Agreement deals with the living and financial arrangements between you and your partner, addressing issues such as the ownership of the family home and certain belongings and how these will be divided in the event of a relationship breakdown. People often choose to enter into a Cohabitation Agreement in order to protect the property or assets which they bring into a relationship and to agree how their day-to-day finances are to be shared whilst living together.
Although entering into a Cohabitation Agreement may seem unromantic, it will greatly reduce the risk of both parties incurring significant and disproportionate legal fees in the event of separation. The law is complex and the potential outcomes are often highly uncertain.
You can enter into a Cohabitation Agreement at any time, but if you are planning to move in with your partner, it would be sensible to have the agreement drawn up beforehand.
Is the agreement legally binding?
Cohabitation Agreements are governed under contract law. In order to ensure that the agreement is legally binding, it is important that the agreement meets certain criteria:
- Both parties must intend the agreement to be legally binding. This means that you and your partner should seek independent legal advice.
- The agreement must be signed and witnessed as a Deed.
- The terms of the agreement must not be vague or uncertain.
- The agreement must not be made under duress or coercion.
In light of the above it is vital that you seek legal advice and assistance with entering into a Cohabitation Agreement. Our team of family lawyers can provide you with this advice.
Here to help
Our specialist teams can provide full service legal advice and assistance, providing practical and cost-effective solutions.
A specialist team of solicitors
Our family lawyers have considerable expertise and experience of negotiating and preparing Cohabitation Agreements. As members of Resolution, we also recognise the need to approach the situation with sensitivity to avoid acrimony between you and your partner as well as unnecessary costs.
Get in touch with a specialist member of our family team of solicitors for more legal advice and guidance for cohabiting and unmarried couples.
About Ellis Jones
Our team of solicitors take a personal approach to law, creating an experience for our clients which is tailored to their individual needs and gives them support and reassurance every step of the way. Learn more about us.
Learn MoreAbout Ellis Jones
Our team of solicitors take a personal approach to law, creating an experience for our clients which is tailored to their individual needs and gives them support and reassurance every step of the way. Learn more about us.
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