With more and more people choosing not to marry, there are an increasing number of separations where arrangements need to be made but where the divorce laws do not apply. Contrary to popular belief there is no such thing as a “common law” husband or wife and the law that applies in these situations often fails to recognise the intimate and interdependent relationships and arrangements that co-habiting couples have.
Couples separating in these circumstances often need assistance to deal with their jointly owned home and other joint financial arrangements. It is possible to draw up a Separation Agreement which deals with these issues and finalises matters in a similar way to the final financial orders in divorce matters.
Separation Agreements can also be used by married couples / civil partners who do not wish to go through with a divorce / dissolution at that time. It allows them to confirm the financial arrangements and the terms can later be confirmed by Court Order if they divorce / dissolve their Civil Partnership at a later stage.
Our Family Solicitors have experience in dealing with Separation Agreements and will seek to assist the parties to reach a fair and amicable agreement wherever possible.
If you would like to speak with one of our team, we offer initial advice appointments. For more information, please telephone 01380 733300 or 01225 896100. If you think you might qualify for Legal Aid we can help – please let us know when you telephone.