Rights for Cohabitees


Although same-sex marriage has increased, for many, marriage is being replaced by couples choosing to live together as.

Although cohabitation is the fastest growing family type in the UK, there is little to no financial protection for cohabitees should the couple break up, or one party die without leaving a Will.

This is the case regardless of length of time living together, or if the couple have children (though there are some financial claims that can be brought for the benefit of children).

The fall in marriage rates has renewed calls for cohabitation reform. I hope that in the not-too-distant future, there will be financial protection for cohabitees.

The new Labour Government has an exciting opportunity to finally reform this highly problematic area of family law.

Rodney Hylton Potts