If you are thinking about moving in with your partner, or buying property together, you should consider getting advice as a cohabitation agreement may be best to protect yourself in the event that the relationship does not work out.

This is particularly important if you are going to buy property together, especially if you are making unequal contributions financially or it the property is going to be in one person’s name only. The legal position can be complicated in respect of property matters if you are not married or have not entered into a civil partnership, particularly if property is not jointly owned. 

Trust law is often a major factor when considering property rights following the breakdown of relationship. These can be quite complex and difficult to unravel without expert legal advice. A cohabitation agreement can record the position at the outside, creating a common understanding of your arrangements in the event of separation. 

We can advise you about the position regarding financial matters arising from the breakdown of a cohabiting relationship. A separation agreement may be appropriate to record the agreements between you especially regarding financial matters if you do separate. We can also advise on parenting agreements for separating parents.