FAQs About Cohabitation Agreements
What is a cohabitation agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a legal document designed for couples who live together but are not married. It outlines the arrangements for their finances, property, and responsibilities both during the relationship and in the event it ends. The agreement can cover aspects such as who owns what, how property and assets should be divided, how any debts are managed, and the financial support, if any, one partner will provide to the other after a separation.
Having a cohabitation agreement clarifies these points and provides legal protection for both parties, which means it can minimise the risk of disputes should the relationship dissolve.
What does cohabiting mean?
Cohabiting refers to a situation where two people live together in a relationship without being legally married. Couples who cohabit share a domestic life as a couple, which often includes sharing living expenses, a home, and sometimes parenting responsibilities. While cohabiting couples often live together in long-term, committed relationships, their legal rights differ from those of married couples, especially concerning property and financial matters upon separation. This lack of automatic legal protection makes a cohabitation agreement an important consideration.
If you are currently cohabiting or are planning to move in with a partner, seek legal advice from our cohabitation agreement experts today.
How much does a cohabitation agreement cost?
The cost of arranging a cohabitation agreement varies depending on the complexity of the issues involved, the length of the agreement, and the specific services required. At Tyler Hoffman, we strive to provide transparent pricing to avoid any surprises. Drafting a cohabitation agreement starts at £720, including VAT. This fee covers the initial consultation, drafting of the agreement, and any revisions needed to finalise the document. For more complex situations or additional legal services, we will increase the cost to match, and we will provide a detailed quote after an initial assessment of your specific needs.
Are separation agreements legally binding in the UK?
Separation agreements are legally binding in the UK, provided they are properly drafted. Both parties must have entered into the agreement voluntarily, with full disclosure of their financial circumstances and ideally with independent legal advice. Although separation agreements are not the same as a court order, they are considered a contract between the parties and can be enforced as such. However, it is important to note that courts can review separation agreements, especially in situations involving child support or spousal maintenance, if they believe the terms are unfair or do not meet legal standards at the time they are reviewed.
Make sure to avoid any complications - seek independent legal advice from our cohabitation agreement experts today.