MCP Solicitors News

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Cohabitation Bill

Current unmarried couples who split up have a few legal rights.  Women and their children can fall into financial hardship if a relationship breaks down.

A draft Cohabitation Bill that went before the House of Lords on 13th March 2009 proposes that the court should be able to make financial orders provided the cohabitants comply with certain criteria.

The proposed changes include:

  • Maintenance orders of up to three years duration,
  • Assistance with child care costs,
  • Lump sum orders,
  • Pension sharing orders
  • Orders for sale or transfer of ownership of properties,

 

In addition, the Bill proposes to allow cohabitants to insure each other’s lives and to register the death of their partner.

An “Opt Out” is also suggested but this would have to be formally entered into by the parties.

The Cohabitation Bill has been introduced into parliament by Lord Lester of Herne Hill QC with the support of Resolution, an organisation of over 5,000 family lawyers who are committed to a constructive, non-confrontational approach to family law matters.

For more information about this or to find out about your legal rights if you are cohabiting contact our Robert Colwell