Cohabitation agreement
For couples considering living together, it’s a good idea to have a cohabitation agreement in place, not only to protect your assets, but also to potentially avoid an expensive court dispute if you break up.
Many people are surprised to find out if they’re living together they don’t have the same legal rights and responsibilities as people who are married or in a civil partnership.
Cohabitation agreements are legally binding arrangements that set out the financial arrangements, clarify property ownership or set out how assets will be divided if a relationship breaks down.
For example, in you jointly own your home, the agreement may clarify whether the property is to be sold or transferred if you separate, or even how equity should be divided.
An agreement could even determine matters during cohabitation, for example how you and your partner should handle household bills or finances.
When entering into a cohabitation agreement it’s very important each of you takes separate legal advice.
In short, while it might feel a bit like you’re “jinxing” things, it really is prudent if you’re moving in together to plan and have an agreement drafted and your will updated.
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements
Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements can provide clarity for you and your partner: helping protect your assets or financial contributions if the worst happens and you separate.
It’s well worth seeking advice as early as possible.
Our friendly, responsive team will be clear about the process, your options, our approach, and what you can expect.
Separation agreement
A separation agreement, or minute of agreement, records an agreement reached between a separating couple who have resolved matters without court intervention.
It details how assets and shares of any pensions will be divided.
This means any subsequent divorce is likely to be more cost-effective and straightforward than it would otherwise have been. It’s also more likely you’d be able to avoid having to appear in court.
We work with you to negotiate a settlement and you enter into a minute of agreement, which forms the legal basis of your separation. Remember, your partner will need to arrange separate legal advice.
Alternatively, we can advise you if you do need to settle your dispute in court.
In most cases, we offer a fixed fee initial meeting, giving preliminary advice as well as guidance on the next steps, including a clear explanation of the likely cost, if you decide to proceed.
Contact our Aberdeen based family lawyers to create an agreement that works for you.