After years of campaigning by family law organisation Resolution, the Government has launched a consultation on reforming the law for cohabitants following separation and after the death of a partner.
The law affecting married couples has changed significantly in recent years. The introduction of “no-fault” divorce, together with decades of developments in financial remedy law, has helped protect spouses from unfair financial outcomes when a marriage ends.
However, the law for separating cohabitants has remained largely unchanged, despite major shifts in how people choose to build their family lives. Marriage rates have fallen, while more couples now choose to live together without marrying.
When a cohabiting relationship ends, the law provides very limited financial protection. Many people have no legal right to seek financial support from a former partner, leaving them vulnerable to significant hardship. Children and victim-survivors of domestic abuse are often among those most affected.
The Family Team at Burley Geach welcomes the Government’s consultation, which will run throughout the summer. We hope it will lead to meaningful reform and new legislation that better reflects modern family life.
If you are experiencing the breakdown of a cohabiting relationship, you may be able to take steps to protect your financial position. Our specialist family solicitors can explain your options and provide clear, practical advice. Please do not hesitate to contact one of the team below to arrange a no-obligation consultation.
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