By default, UK law does not grant unmarried couples the same protections as unmarried couples – and the concept of the ‘common-law partner’ is simply mythical.
So, if you do opt to separate, this could pose an array of difficult challenges unless, before the separation, the two of you had struck what is often referred to as a ‘living together agreement’.
Otherwise referred to as a cohabitation agreement, this is where you and your partner will have made a record of how you intended to own and share things together.
If you are still in a happy relationship with your partner, making a cohabitation agreement now with help from one of our family law solicitors can act as a kind of insurance policy in case you later split up.
If no cohabitation agreement is in place when you separate, your rights will be very limited – and it is unlikely you will have a share in the house you live in or be entitled to any financial assistance.