Family

Unmarried Couples

Unmarried Couples

At Franklins Solicitors, our family law specialists provide clear, practical advice for unmarried couples, helping you understand your rights and protect your future.

At Franklins Solicitors, our family law specialists provide clear, practical advice for unmarried couples, helping you understand your rights and protect your future.

Law for Life

Legal Services for Unmarried Couples

We advise on all aspects of cohabitation law, including:

  • Cohabitation Agreements

    Protect your finances and set out responsibilities with a legally binding cohabitation agreement.

  • Declarations of Trust

    Clarify property ownership and shares to prevent future property disputes.

  • Inheritance Planning & Wills

    Plan your estate and ensure your partner and loved ones are provided for.

  • Disputes Over Property & Finances

    Resolve disagreements over money, property and shared assets fairly.

  • Inheritance Act Claims

    Make a claim to protect your entitlement if someone dies without a valid Will.

  • Family Mediation & Constructive Resolution

    Reach amicable agreements through mediation, avoiding costly court proceedings.

Speak to our Family Law Team

If you’re going through a separation, experiencing family conflict or need advice on how to protect yourself and your loved ones, we’re here to help.

Contact
Oliver Henry
Paralegal
Nikita Bhara
Senior Family Solicitor
Mandip Bhachu
Senior Solicitor
David Croft
Legal Advisor
Amina Begum
Solicitor
Law for Life

Cohabiting? Protect Your Interests with a Cohabitation Agreement

Many people don’t realise that unmarried couples have no automatic legal rights to each other’s property or assets, regardless of how long they’ve lived together. If you own a home, share bills or have children, a cohabitation agreement sets out:

  • How property is owned or contributed to
  • How bills and mortgage/rent are split
  • What should happen if you separate
  • Arrangements for children or pets, where relevant

These agreements provide a fair and enforceable foundation should the relationship come to an end.

Family Law

Why Choose Franklins Solicitors for
Unmarried Couples?

A Personal, Responsive Approach

We understand the unique challenges faced by unmarried couples and provide tailored, practical advice.

Decades of Experience

For over 40 years, we’ve advised clients across Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire and beyond.

Clear, No-Jargon Advice

We explain complex rules in plain English, so you can make confident, informed decisions.

Constructive & Strategic

We encourage resolution by agreement where possible but we are ready to act firmly if court proceedings become necessary.

Local & Accessible

With offices in Northampton and Milton Keynes, our specialist team is always nearby when you need us.

Family law

Unmarried Couples FAQs

What steps can we take to protect each other if we’re not married?2025-11-28T10:47:27+00:00

Even if you’re not married, there are ways to make sure you and your partner are protected. You might consider:

  • A Cohabitation Agreement – to set out your financial arrangements while you live together.
  • A Declaration of Trust – to clarify who owns what if you buy property together.
  • Wills – to ensure your wishes are followed and your partner is provided for.

Taking these steps can give you peace of mind and help avoid misunderstandings or costly disputes in the future.

Do unmarried partners pay inheritance tax?2025-09-19T10:31:13+01:00

Yes. Unlike married couples, gifts between unmarried partners are not exempt from inheritance tax. This can create significant financial strain if the estate exceeds the Nil Rate Band.

Can I protect my share if I put more money into buying our home?2025-09-19T10:30:56+01:00

Yes. A declaration of trust records how much each partner owns and ensures contributions are recognised. Without one, the presumption is that ownership is equal.

Does common-law marriage exist?2025-09-19T10:30:18+01:00

No. There is no such thing as a common-law marriage in England and Wales. Unless you are married or in a civil partnership, you do not automatically have rights over your partner’s property or estate.

What happens if my partner dies without a Will?2025-09-19T10:30:34+01:00

Unmarried partners are not included in the intestacy rules. You would only inherit joint assets, not anything held solely in your partner’s name. To protect your future, making a Will is essential.

Experienced Solicitors Providing Expert Legal Advice

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