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Family Law & Divorce

Cohabitation Agreements

Couples who live together can be exposed financially
A cohabitation agreement can help protect your assets against financial claims from your partner should the relationship breakdown in future.

Why seek legal advice

It is a common misconception that cohabiting couples gain equal rights to those who are married or in a civil partnership under a “common law marriage”. This is sadly not the case and often couples who live together will be exposed financially. Find out how a cohabitation agreement could help.

HK Law can provide expert legal advice from an early stage to ensure that all assets are protected and the agreement can withstand any potential legal challenge in future.

  • Make informed decisions
  • Protect your assets
  • Save time and money
  • Understand your position
  • Peace of mind
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Cohabitation agreements
Family lawyer

Why choose HK Law?

We aim to provide a professional, friendly and supportive service and are sensitive to your legal needs at all times.

We aim to give accurate and sound legal advice to empower you to make informed decisions and to give you peace of mind when embarking upon new stages in life.

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Darren Francis, HK Law

Your questions answered

Darren Francis, Associate Solicitor
  • Is there such a thing as a “common law marriage”?
    In short, no. This is a common misconception that couples who live together have equal rights to those who are married or in a civil partnership. This is sadly not the case at present, although the term is still often used to refer to couples who live together.
  • What is a cohabitation agreement?
    A legal document drawn up to protect the assets of one or other party, or sometimes both. It can seek to ringfence any property or assets purchased or owned prior to the relationship, or any assets due to be acquired during the relationship for example. It can set out an agreement as to what will happen to any assets upon separation.
  • Do I have to disclose my financial position?
    Yes. It is advisable, although not always necessary, to undertake an exchange of financial information and documents early on, so that both parties are satisfied of the current position and the assets being protected. If, however, there is a valid reason you do not wish to seek financial disclosure from the other party, then we may require you to sign an indemnity form or disclaimer to this effect.
  • What is the best time to consider a cohabitation agreement?
    Any time during the relationship is a good time, but as with any legal document, the sooner you can seek and obtain legal advice the better.

By Darren Francis, Associate Solicitor

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