Moving in together is a cherished milestone in any relationship, but what happens if that relationship sadly breaks down? If you are keen to take that next step, but also want to protect your pre-acquired assets and secure your financial future, our experienced family solicitors will tailor a clear, pragmatic agreement, delivered sensitively and efficiently, with transparent fees.

A cohabitation agreement (also known as a living-together contract) is a clear, written record of your shared intentions and records how cohabitants will organise property, finances and responsibilities, and what should occur on separation or death. It protects individual and shared interests, provides certainty, reduces the risk of future disputes and legal expense, and preserves trust by setting clear expectations from the outset.

In England and Wales there is no such thing as a “common law marriage,” regardless of how long a couple has lived together. Cohabiting does not create the legal status, rights, or obligations of marriage or civil partnership. Despite ongoing policy debate, there has been no implemented statutory reform creating general financial remedies for cohabitants.

Professionally drafted cohabitation agreements are routinely enforceable as contracts in the civil courts of England and Wales. They support autonomy, reduce litigation risk, and allows you to focus on building a life together, with confidence, future financial security and legal certainty.

Arnold Greenwood is a longestablished firm, trusted by generations in the local community for clear, dependable legal support. We offer free 30-minute appointments either face to face in Grange or Kendal, remotely via Microsoft Teams or by telephone.