Anthony Jones of O’Donnell Solicitors offers some advice on cohabitation
THE SUMMER is over, the children are back in school and after a hectic six weeks you can finally sit down with a cup of coffee and reflect.
But what are you reflecting on? A summer of fun at the beach, laughing and splashing around with your loved ones, or has your summer been rather rocky?
Holidays can be make or break for some relationships, whether you are married or unmarried, and whether you are in an opposite or same sex relationship.
Have you found yourself wondering what happened to ‘what we used to have?’.
It is natural for relationships to go through ups and downs but unfortunately in today’s society many relationships do come to an end – but this does not mean that you have to go through this alone.
On the other hand, you may have found the summer has brought you closer together and you are ready to take that next step. For many couples this can mean they choose to cohabit.
If you are getting ready to take that next step – whether putting a ‘for sale’ sign up on your house or rearranging your cupboards and drawers ready for your partner to move in – take a brief moment to consider your legal position.
As cohabitees you will not be afforded the same protection by the law as a married couple or as those in a civil partnership.
If your relationship breaks down and you have sold your house to cohabit with your partner, you will not necessarily be entitled to any of the equity in your partner’s property. Furthermore, if one of you passes away, your assets will not automatically pass to your partner. You can however protect yourself by entering into a cohabitation agreement.
Anthony Jones, head of the Family Law team at O’Donnell Solicitors and a Resolution Accredited Specialist, has much experience preparing cohabitation agreements and can also provide general advice if you are unsure what steps to take.
Anthony can also advise on all areas of Family Law including divorce, separation, child arrangements and jurisdictional issues. He will listen to your experiences and help you to reach the best possible outcome.
Finally, if you have already instructed a solicitor but are concerned that you are not receiving the service you require and deserve, Anthony would be delighted to meet you to go through the process and offers a free 30-minute consultation.
O’Donnell Solicitors also offer services in Wills and Estate Administration, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection, Conveyancing, Commercial Property, Company Law, Landlord and Tenant, Employment Law, Disputes and Litigation. They have offices in Uppermill and Lees.
For more information please visit their website: www.odonnellsolicitors.co.uk or call them on: 0161 641 4555.
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