Many couples are under the assumption that, if they are living together but unmarried or not in a civil partnership, then ‘common law marriage’ protects them in the same way as married couples. However, no such law exists. Couples who live together do not have the same legal rights as married couples or those in a civil partnership, so this assumption is a myth.
A cohabitation agreement can provide peace of mind in your relationship. By coming to an agreement before or whilst you are living together, you will: have a clear understanding of what your financial commitments are avoid misunderstandings regarding your rights and responsibilities as you continue to live together, in particular with regards to ownership of property avoid difficulties and disagreements if you split up have clear evidence of your intentions should you have to go to court