It is increasing common these days for couples to cohabit. When making the decision to live together you and your partner should be aware of the legal position in the event of the breakdown of your relationship. There is a commonly held belief that similar rights to that of married couples can be acquired in long term permanent relationships whereby the status as “common law wife” or “common law husband” establishes a claim for financial provision arising from the relationship. In fact contrary to popular belief there is no such thing in English law as a “common law” spouse. 

There is no single body of law specifically designed to cater for cohabitees, however, the law does increasingly recognise cohabitee rights. The following is a brief guide of this area of law but it should be remembered that every situation is different and you will need advice tailored to your own case.