Could cohabiting couples benefit from a future Labour government?

Many people believe that living together over a long period provides partners with the same legal rights as married couples. Such a belief in 'common law marriage' is simply incorrect and cohabitees seeking to protect their position are encouraged to take legal advice. That’s because, as an unmarried partner, you may invest years of your life in a relationship only to find you have no entitlement to capital, maintenance or a pension.

This affects a large number of the population with 3.6 million cohabiting couples in the UK, making up 18% of families in 2022.

Therefore an announcement from Shadow Attorney General, Emily Thornberry MP, at the Labour Party Conference (10 October 2023) stating that a Labour government would reform the law for cohabiting couples is being welcomed.

Jo Edwards, Chair of Resolution’s Family Law Reform Group said: “This is a hugely welcome development and one that should be welcomed by cohabiting couples, together with practitioners who see the significant financial hardship caused by our current, out of date law.”

The current law has yet to reflect deep-rooted changes in UK society. There is hope that a future Labour government would be committed to reforming the law for cohabitating couples. Until then, cohabitees and partners should seek professional advice from experienced solicitors rather than believe the common law marriage myth.

By taking legal advice, you may be able to protect your home and monies paid during the course of your relationship.

If you would like more information Stone King has family law specialists available to help.