Cohabitation Lawyers for Unmarried Couples

Protect your rights with our expert cohabitation lawyers. Get started today with a consultation to secure your living arrangements.

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Expert legal support for cohabiting couples.

Cohabitation, or living together without being married, is an increasingly common choice for many couples. However, the legal framework surrounding cohabiting relationships differs significantly from that of married couples, especially when it comes to separation or property disputes.  Our cohabitation lawyers provide clarity from the first meeting, and help get such issues resolved fast.

A common misconception is the idea of ‘common law marriage’. In reality, no such status exists under English law, meaning that cohabiting partners often face limited legal protection if the relationship ends. Simply living together for a period of time and/or having children does not grant partners the same legal rights as a married couple.

Our team of expert family lawyers in London and the South East offer specialist guidance to help protect your interests in a cohabiting relationship.

We are not just experts in current cohabitation law – we are also advocates for its evolution.

Our team includes Susi Gillespie, a Resolution accredited specialist in cohabitation disputes and TOLATA, who is at the forefront of research and policy development in this area. Her expertise ensures our clients receive the latest advice on cohabitation issues.

Cohabitation services

Separation Agreements

Property Disputes

Cohabitation Agreements

Understanding your rights as a cohabiting couple.

Many couples choose to live together without getting married, but not everyone is aware of how this affects their legal rights.

  • Cohabitation agreements that protect your interests

    A cohabitation agreement is a wise step for any couple planning to live together. This document clearly outlines who owns what and what will happen to each asset if you were to part ways.

  • Separation agreements for clear & fair outcomes

    If you decide to part ways, a separation agreement can be an essential tool for unmarried couples. This legal document outlines how assets, debts, and other responsibilities will be handled post-separation. It helps both parties avoid disputes and ensures a clear, fair division of property, from savings to personal belongings.

  • Financial support if you have children together

    If you have children together, we not only provide expert advice regarding the arrangements for your children following a separation but, can also advise you regarding the financial support that may be available to you.

    In addition to child maintenance, it may be possible to make financial claims for the benefit of your children, including property and lump sum orders, under Schedule 1 of the Children Act.

Whether you need guidance regarding a property dispute, drafting a cohabitation/separation agreement, or support regarding financial provision that may be available for your children, Thomas Mansfield´s cohabitation lawyers will provide you with expert advice.

Meet our family solicitors

Legal protection matters.

Cohabiting couples should consider legal protections like cohabitation agreements and wills to safeguard their rights. Without these protections, partners may face financial and legal difficulties, especially when it comes to property and inheritance.

At Thomas Mansfield Family Law, we help you take the necessary steps to protect your future and your partner’s rights.

Starting is quick & easy

  • Get in touch

    Call or request a callback, and we’ll arrange a time to discuss your case in confidence.

  • Talk through your options

    We’ll review your case and provide clear advice on your options and costs.

  • We get to work

    Once you decide to proceed, we’ll start right away, handling all necessary steps and guiding you through the process.

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Our locations

London

South East

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What clients say
about us

Thank you Reshma. Such a difficult time…I really appreciate your guidance and expertise!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your diligence and invaluable assistance throughout this process. Your support has been greatly appreciated.

Amy is a fantastic lawyer who always looks at what's best for her client. She is highly committed, a good forecaster and has got the ability to think three steps ahead. She always knows what the best strategy is to use to succeed and please her client. She has a good sense of humour even in high-tension situations and has got a high level of stress tolerance.

Reshma was available to listen at a time when I needed the reassurance. From our initial chats her expertise and confidence were enough to put my mind at rest.

Reshma was amazing with my initial consulting. She broke down the step by step process which I needed to take to move forward in my situation. I would definitely highly recommend.

I have been comforted by excellent insight and a calm and effective service. The team provides succinct communication which is action-orientated and targeted towards the objective.

Fantastic service, fast response. Would recommend TM to anybody looking for legal assistance.

Everything was done virtually and my solicitor kept me fully informed throughout. I would definitely recommend Thomas Mansfield for anyone needing a family lawyer.

I have worked with Amy in some international divorces, she is a skilled lawyer with a wide expertise in domestic and international law. Mostly important, she able to understand the peculiarities of different jurisdictions and achieve the best result for her clients.

I would recommend, and indeed have recommended, Susi to my friends, confident in the belief that she would provide the same excellent service to them, as she has provided for me.

Contact us

Arrange a confidential chat with one of our expert family law solicitors today.

Please note we cannot offer legal aid.

Contact us

Arrange a confidential chat with one of our expert family law solicitors today.

Please note we cannot offer legal aid.

Request a callback