Expert legal services for unmarried couples

Why choose us?

  • Free initial telephone consultation
  • Fixed fees available
  • Solicitors handling your case
  • Experts in Financial Settlements and Pension Specialists
  • Regular updates

Many unmarried couples believe that they will automatically gain legal rights simply by living together for a length of time or by having children together. However, in England and Wales this is not the case and, regardless of the length of time that a relationship lasts, there are very few legal rights for unmarried couples.

At Pinnington Law, our team of expert solicitors will advise you about your legal options if your relationship has broken down. All of our initial consultations are free, so you can learn about your unmarried couples’ rights and how our expert solicitors can meet your legal needs without having to commit to financial procedures.

If you decide to begin court proceedings, our specialist divorce team will competently represent you during all of your court situations.

We can also advise you upon the three documents which are currently available to unmarried couples:

  • Prenuptial agreements
  • Living Together Agreement
  • Separation Agreement

Pre-Nuptial Agreements

If you are considering marriage but are concerned about how to protect your assets, we can help you draft a prenuptial agreement. If you have children from previous relationships or other significant assets, a prenuptial agreement can legally protect them. Although prenuptial agreements will  usually stand up in court and agree to the provisions already stated, courts have in the past overlooked certain provisions within the agreement. In exceptional circumstances, the entire agreement has been overlooked when there was a particularly persuasive argument or where children were involved. Therefore it is important that your prenuptial agreement is arranged by an experienced solicitor such as the team at Pinnington Law.

Living Together Agreements

Another option which is available to you is a Living Together Agreement. This type of agreement is relevant if you intend on moving in with your loved one, or have assets you wish to protect as you are currently living together. A Living Together Agreement organises what would happen if you decide to split up with your partner whilst you are still unmarried. It is important to note that the Living Together Agreement is only legally binding if you write it on a formal legal deed. At Pinnington Law, we provide such a process. The court will be more likely to recognise a formal legal agreement if there is an issue of unmarried rights during a split.

Separation Agreement

Alternatively, a Separation Agreement is another legal process through which you can resolve financial issues if your relationship has ended. Although you will not have the same rights as a married couple, the formal legal deed can be binding and helpful if court proceedings become necessary. However, bear in mind that a Separation Agreement is slightly different for unmarried couples given the lack of rights. Similar to the Living Together Agreement, the court will regard a Separation Agreement more favourably if it has been formalised through a solicitor.

Ultimately, any financial agreements which are made on a formal deed need to be accurate at the time of their creation. Fortunately, with the help of an experienced solicitor these agreements can be fair to both parties.

Call us for EXPERT advice on: 0161 761 8099 or email us at: [email protected]