A senior family judge, Sir Nicholas Mostyn, has said that in his personal opinion there should not be a difference between the legal rights of married and unmarried couples.
At present the law treats married and unmarried couples very differently on separation. Married couples can expect a starting point of a 50/50 split of their joint assets regardless of who owned them originally or how much each spouse has contributed. Unmarried couples on the other hand will find that the law of ownership is strictly applied to property and other assets regardless of contributions. This is the case even if they have lived as a married couple and even if they have children together.
If you are separating from your partner or spouse and want further advice about your rights please contact us.