Why obtain a cohabitation agreement?
More couples (including friends) are choosing to live together without getting married or entering a civil partnership – but there is no legal recognition for cohabiting couples like there is with marriage and civil partnerships. A cohabitation agreement provides legal protection for two people who live together through defining property ownership and financial arrangements, reducing potential conflicts in the future.
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What a cohabitation agreement includes
When there are shared assets and responsibilities – for example, property, bills, pensions and dependents (children and/or pets) – a cohabitation agreement is a legal document which protects and safeguards both of you, practically, while providing all-important peace of mind, were your relationship to end. It should include how property and other significant assets such as cars, are shared, and how they will be divided if the relationship was to end; financial contributions and debt responsibilities; care arrangements for dependents including children and pets; next-of-kin rights including pensions and life insurance arrangements.
Our sensitive and meticulous team members will guide you through the process of drafting you cohabitation agreement with clear, personalised advice. It is a collaborative process and we will work attentively with you to understand your individual requirements, while explaining the detail to you with clarity. With your valuable in-put, and with both of your best interests at heart, we will create an agreement which honours your shared intentions and protects your interests. We are committed to safeguarding your future, ensuring you are prepared for unforeseen circumstances.
Why choose
CWC Solicitors?
Our top priorities are that you both feel listened to throughout the process of creating your cohabitation agreement, and feel informed and confident. We achieve this by allocating you one of our specialist solicitors who will be with you from the beginning to the end of the process and be your trusted guide. We will create a bespoke agreement for you, providing you with legal security and protection and ensuring you both have peace of mind for the future.
Frequently asked questions
Still unsure or need something explained in more detail? Contact us, and we’ll guide you through it.
1. Why do cohabiting couples need a cohabitation agreement?
There is no legal recognition for cohabiting couples like there is with marriage and civil partnerships. A cohabitation agreement provides legal protection for two people who live together through defining property ownership and financial arrangements, reducing potential conflicts in the future.
2. Is a cohabitation agreement legally binding?
Yes, when the agreement meets all legal requirements.
3. When is the best time to create a cohabitation agreement?
A cohabitation agreement establishes clear expectations and mutual understanding, so should ideally be created early in a relationship. However, it can be drafted at any stage of cohabitation.
4. Can a cohabitation agreement be changed or updated?
Yes, agreements can be updated when both parties agree to the changes.
5. What happens if we separate without a cohabitation agreement?
Without a cohabitation agreement, there is no legal framework protecting your property and financial matters, resulting in potential disagreement. Having an agreement in place reduces the risk of conflict.
6. What if one party refuses to sign a cohabitation agreement?
There may be disagreements during the process of creating the draft document and our solicitors will offer guidance on how to address such situations. A cohabitation agreement will only be finalised when both parties are in agreement with its content.
7. Can a cohabitation agreement be enforced in court?
Yes, if an agreement is properly drafted and meets legal requirements.
8. Do cohabitation agreements expire after a certain period?
No, but they can become outdated due to changes within a relationship, so it’s advisable to review and update your agreement periodically to reflect any changes in circumstances.
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We’re here to give you clear advice to help you navigate this significant life change as smoothly as possible, and to safeguard your future and wellbeing.
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