What is a cohabitation agreement? Family Law

A cohabitation agreement is for couples who live together without marrying. It can regulate your financial situation with your partner and protect your interests if the relationship comes to an end.

Cohabitation agreements can be tailored to your particular circumstances and may include things like:

• Arrangements for children if you separate
• Who is responsible for paying bills in the shared home
• Inheritance and wills, should you wish to leave anything to your partner
• Who retains property acquired prior to living together
• How property acquired post-cohabitation will be divided if you separate

Generally a cohabitation agreement is legally binding. Although, any agreement will become null and void if you get married and may not be binding if you and your partner have a child together.

Cohabitation has no legal standing, so unlike married couples, cohabiting couples have no automatic rights to property, inheritance or pension benefits, and financial matters are managed through informal arrangements with no legal backing. Cohabitation agreements protect both you and your partner, providing clarity and peace of mind.