Nearly 40% of marriages are remarriages for at least one of the couple. This often means that they have complicated financial arrangements and responsibilities arising out of their earlier relationship(s). There is also a trend towards people marrying or committing to a Civil Partnership at an older age which often means that the parties have financial resources which they have accumulated prior to the marriage. In these circumstances a Pre-nuptial / Pre-Civil Partnership Agreement allows the parties to reach an agreement to protect their own financial positions in the event of a separation.

These agreements are not currently binding on a Court in the event of a divorce / dissolution but over recent years the Courts have shown a greater regard for the terms of Pre-nuptial Agreements particularly where both parties have had legal advice during the preparation process.

Our team of Family Solicitors have experience in advising on appropriate Pre-nuptial Agreements and in drawing up formal agreements that reflect the guidance given by the Court in recent Court Cases. We know that the idea of a Pre-nuptial Agreement is often a very difficult issue to consider at the time when one is contemplating a long-term relationship. We are sensitive to the delicate nature of these negotiations and will seek to deal with the arrangements to fit your particular circumstances.

Cohabitation Agreements / Living Together Agreements

Tackling sensitive financial issues before living together can avoid or significantly reduce conflict, costs, uncertainty and protracted litigation in the event of a relationship breakdown.

The number of non-married couples living together continues to rise. The Government had planned to legislate to afford such couples more protection but these reforms now look unlikely.

Contrary to popular belief, in law there is no such thing as a “common law spouse”. It is, however, possible to enter into a Cohabitation Agreement which can often give unmarried couples the protection they need. Regardless of when a couple plan to marry or contemplate moving in together, it is important to have the benefit of legal advice before entering into a long-term relationship.

Drafting Cohabitation Agreements and Living Together Agreements is a specialist task. Here at Wansbroughs, our lawyers have experience in drafting and advising on many such agreements and we are highly qualified to guide you through the process.