Expert legal help with cohabitation agreements
When you are about to take the next exciting step in your relationship by moving in together pause for a moment and reflect upon what might happen if you should later separate. Since the introduction of the Family Law (Scotland) 2006, cohabitants now have financial rights if the relationship ends.
A Cohabitation Agreement can reflect what you each bring to the relationship financially and can be used to protect assets where, for example, one partner moves into the property already owned by the other. The Agreement should be thought of like an insurance policy to deal with the consequences of a separation, should it happen and puts beyond doubt how assets should be dealt with on a separation and cuts down on enormous costs of a dispute.
Regulating what is to happen should you separate, or one partner dies, is an important step and can reduce stress and considerable expense that can often be caused by conflict when emotions are running high.
How much will it cost?
We provide bespoke Agreements which specifically reflect your personal circumstances as fixed price packages rarely result in good value for money for our clients. We offer your first meeting (one hour) with one of our experienced family law solicitors at a fixed fee of £320+VAT. We then follow up with recommendations and options, including detailed costs, on the most appropriate and cost-effective way to proceed.
We offer a free 10 minute telephone call with one of our solicitors to discuss how we can help.
Frequently asked questions to consider…
Wise words from Beverley
“The best outcome financially for you is to negotiate a settlement covering all aspects of your separation that can be reflected into a document known as a Separation Agreement or Minute of Agreement. Once this has been signed you can proceed to divorce on undefended basis which will cut your costs considerably, as well as your stress levels”
We can help you right now
Our commitment to provide you with the best possible advice includes a free initial phone call with one of our experts. This allows us to fully prepare for your first meeting which we always offer at a fixed fee rate.
We understand that seeking Family Law advice can be daunting. However, when you get in touch with us, you will find a tailored, highly personal and reassuring approach which will empower you to take back control.
Recent Case Studies, Articles and Information
Case Study: Helping you insure your future
Problem Our client wanted his partner to move into his house. Both parties had been divorced and were considering marriage. Our client had a good financial position from his [...]
Case Study: Helping you reach a good out of court settlement
Problem Our client had cohabited with his partner for over ten years. They had a child together. During their relationship, his partner did not work. Our client had enjoyed [...]
Are Cohabitation Agreements Legally Binding?
Cohabitation agreements act as an insurance policy for unmarried couples living together or those who aren’t in a civil partnership, helping to clarify rights, responsibilities, and financial arrangements. A question [...]
What Should a Cohabitation Agreement Look Like?
Key points to takeaway: A cohabitation agreement should be clear and unambiguous. It is essential to obtain legal advice before preparing an agreement. The best time to make a cohabitation [...]
New Appeal Court decision passed regarding financial claims for couples who lived together. Don’t hang around to take advice
If you have separated from your partner that you co-habited with then there is a key, recently reported Sheriff Appeal Court decision that you should be aware of. Currently the Family Law Act 2006 [...]
Guest Blog on Cohabiting vs Married Couples and Capital Gains Tax
Johnson Legal Family Law is perfectly placed to advise you on the legal rights of cohabitation – and the fact that you may not be as protected as you would [...]
Same sex marriage and civil partnerships
21st century Scotland has proudly recognised and promoted the importance of equality for all couples no matter their sexual orientation. After a series of radical changes to the law, Scotland [...]
Is the law for cohabitees changing?
In 2006 there was a radical change in Scottish law. For the first time ever, couples who lived together but weren’t married were given some legal protection. At the time [...]
When is unreasonable behaviour sufficiently unreasonable?
The recent Supreme Court appeal case of Owens v Owens has resulted in considerable public and media attention. Mrs Owens sought decree of divorce from her husband. It was Mrs Owen’s positon [...]
Here to help in a full range of family legal matters…
A stitch in time – consider investing in an agreement to reflect what you both want to happen financially, should your relationship come to an end.
Sort it without court costs – these contracts regulate your separation. From your children to financial matters, these allow you to proceed to an undefended divorce.
Sometimes you need smart experienced lawyers to guide you through the complex legal system to help you deal with the end of your marriage, and to ensure a fair division of all matrimonial property.
Your children are your absolute priority so they are our priority too. We can work hard to help you in all disputes about Parental Rights and Responsibilities including residence and contact.
The law offers limited protection for cohabitees, governed by strict rules. We can make sure you receive a fair deal at the end of your relationship.
At your most vulnerable, we will make sure you and your family is protected.