Thousands of unmarried couples in the North West of England are at risk of losing everything if the relationship breaks down.

The Family Law team at St Helens Law have joined the call for unmarried couples to take action to protect themselves, as they could be vulnerable if the relationship breaks down. The drive comes as part of a national Cohabitation Awareness Week that is being led by Resolution, who campaign for a fairer family justice system.

Cohabitation Awareness Week aims to raise awareness about the lack of rights that exist for unmarried couples who live together.

There are about 7 million people in the UK living in this type of relationship, making this the fastest growing family type in the country. Most couples mistakenly believe that they acquire “common law” rights after living with their partner for a certain amount of time or having children together. The sad reality is that unmarried couples in [area] have very limited legal rights and responsibilities towards each other if the relationship breaks down.  

This is why we are urging all cohabiting couples to consider taking out basic protections, such as a cohabitation agreement to protect both partners if they separate, or think about life insurance. By setting out  intentions in these documents, you’ll be in a much better situation if the unexpected happens.

Resolution has made resources available, both to the public but also local advice providers, such as mortgage advisers, to help them spread the word to cohabiting couples they work with.

If you would like a FREE 30 minute consultation regarding cohabitation or any family matter, then please email info@sthelenslaw.co.uk or telephone 01744 742360 and ask for Debbie or Nicola.