Cohabitation solicitors, Guildford

Explore how we can help you and your family with all your legal requirements.

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At Moore Barlow we understand that cohabitation can present unique legal challenges. Our experienced team of solicitors specialises in guiding and advising individuals and couples who are cohabiting.

Whether you need assistance with drafting a cohabitation agreement, resolving disputes, or protecting your rights as a cohabitant, our solicitors are here to help.

With our deep understanding of family law and commitment to providing personalised service, we aim to make your cohabitation journey as smooth as possible. We recognise that every cohabitation situation is different, which is why our solicitors take the time to listen to your needs, concerns, and goals. We work closely with you to develop tailored solutions that meet your specific circumstances, ensuring that your rights and interests are protected throughout the process.

Contact our cohabitation solicitors Guildford team today to schedule a consultation. Let us provide you with the expert legal guidance and support you need to navigate the complexities of cohabitation with confidence and peace of mind.

Joanna Farrands

Joanna Farrands

Partner | Family

01483 543223

What is a cohabitation dispute?

A cohabitation dispute refers to a legal disagreement between unmarried individuals who have been living together in a romantic relationship. These disputes typically involve issues related to property division, financial support, or child custody and support.

Why choose us?

At Moore Barlow we understand the unique complexities surrounding cohabitation law and the importance of providing tailored legal solutions to our clients in Guildford. Our team of experienced cohabitation solicitors is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring a fair resolution. With our extensive knowledge and expertise, we can guide you through the legal situation, offering practical advice and support every step of the way. Trust Moore Barlow to handle your cohabitation matters with professionalism and empathy, achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Our cohabitation solicitors in Guildford are recognised for their legal expertise, holding key accreditations such as Resolution membership, which demonstrates our commitment to resolving family disputes constructively. We are also ranked in both Chambers and Legal 500 for family law, which highlights our dedication to delivering top-tier legal advice. Unlike many competitors, we provide tailored support for unmarried couples navigating complex property and financial claims, supported by a deep understanding of local court procedures and family law precedents relevant to cohabitating partners in Surrey and the South East.

How we can help

Our experienced team of cohabitation solicitors in Guildford is dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of cohabitation issues. Whether you are facing disputes over property, financial matters, or child custody, our knowledgeable solicitors provide expert guidance and representation. We understand the unique challenges that arise from cohabitation and work diligently to protect your rights and interests. With our tailored approach, we strive to achieve positive outcomes through negotiation, mediation, or litigation if necessary. Trust in our expertise to provide compassionate and effective solutions for your cohabitation concerns. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

We provide comprehensive legal support across a range of cohabitation-related matters, including drafting tailor-made cohabitation agreements, advising on property ownership rights under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act (TOLATA), and assisting with disputes relating to joint mortgages and shared financial interests. We also represent clients in mediation and negotiation processes and support parents in securing or disputing child maintenance arrangements when unmarried couples separate. Our holistic service ensures legal protection both during the relationship and in the event of its breakdown.

We are here to help

Start an online enquiry by completing our short questionnaire.

Who we help

Our cohabitation solicitors in Guildford are experienced in assisting individuals in various legal matters related to cohabitation, including unmarried couples, same-sex couples, and individuals seeking advice on cohabitation agreements and disputes.

Our clients range from young professionals purchasing property together for the first time, to high-net-worth individuals seeking to protect inherited or pre-acquired assets through cohabitation agreements. We regularly advise entrepreneurs, business owners, and those in the tech and finance sectors in Guildford and beyond, who require sound legal structures to protect both personal and commercial interests when living with a partner. We also support families assisting younger generations with investments in joint property ventures.

Understanding your legal rights as a cohabitant

Many people are unaware that there is no such thing as a ‘common law marriage’ in the UK. This means that cohabiting partners do not automatically acquire financial claims against one another, regardless of how long they have lived together. At Moore Barlow, we educate our clients about their rights and help them take proactive steps to secure their future. Whether you’re considering moving in together or have already started building a life as a cohabiting couple, understanding the legal framework is essential. Our team in Guildford ensures clients are informed and empowered to make decisions that safeguard their interests.

Why acting early matters

Seeking legal advice at the outset of your cohabitation can prevent complex disputes later. We encourage clients to plan ahead with legal documents like cohabitation agreements or declarations of trust. These provide clarity and reduce the risk of costly and emotionally draining litigation. Our team works with you at every stage to develop legal solutions that reflect your needs and circumstances, offering peace of mind and legal protection from day one.

Contact us

Contact our experienced team of cohabitation solicitors in Guildford today for expert advice and assistance with all matters relating to cohabitation agreements, disputes, and financial settlements. We are committed to providing you with professional and personalised legal services. Call us now or fill out the contact form to schedule a consultation.

We have offices in LondonRichmondSouthamptonGuildfordLymington and Woking and offer specialist cohabitation legal services to clients nationwide. Contact Moore Barlow to find out how we can help you and your family.

We are here to help

Start an online enquiry by completing our short questionnaire.

Contact our family team

Frequently asked questions

What is a cohabitation agreement and do I need one?

A cohabitation agreement is a legal document for unmarried couples who live together, outlining financial arrangements, property ownership, and other shared responsibilities. It protects each partner’s interests and provides clarity in the event of a relationship breakdown.

If you’re not listed as a legal owner, claiming a share of the property typically involves proving a beneficial interest under TOLATA. This can be based on contributions, agreements, or mutual understanding between the parties. Legal advice is essential in these claims.

Jointly owned assets are usually divided equally unless there is evidence showing a different intended split. Legal advice can help establish your entitlement based on contributions and agreements made during the relationship.

No, cohabiting couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples. This is a common misconception. Legal protection must be proactively established through written agreements and understanding of applicable laws.

You can protect your property and finances by creating a cohabitation agreement, maintaining separate financial accounts, and documenting any contributions to joint assets. Early legal advice is key to safeguarding your interests.

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