The natural excitement of starting a new relationship often blinds us to the more mundane – but nonetheless important – issues of legal rights and asset protection.
The vast majority of separation cases involve varying degrees of financial dispute, and/or property ownership issues, leading to the unnecessary protraction of an already difficult process.
Should a relationship break down, such problems can be minimised, and often eliminated altogether, by simply being aware of your legal rights from the outset and implementing some simple measures to protect your finances.
At brains, we're always happy to help generate the peace of mind upon which long-term relationships thrive. Talk to us today, and look to the future with confidence.
Cohabitation
Over the last three decades, the percentage of couples living together without being married to one another has steadily increased.
In fact, cohabitation is now the most popular lifestyle choice for couples in modern relationships, and yet comparatively few people seek professional advice to affirm their legal position and responsibilities before living under the same roof as their partner.
Potentially one of brains solicitors' most useful services, and certainly recommended to shield the interests of all couples considering sharing a home, the preparation of a Cohabitation Agreement clarifies the intentions and respective contributions expected of both parties in respect of property ownership.
An amicable acceptance of the terms laid out in such a document allows couples the freedom to become cohabitants without losing control of their independently owned assets.
Pre-Nuptial Agreements
Entering into a marital contract in the U.K. still carries many legal implications, which may or may not be in the best interests of the couple concerned.
A Pre-Nuptial Agreement aims to avoid complications – most commonly in regard to property ownership – in the event of a marriage or civil partnership coming to an end.
Although not currently legally binding in England and Wales, the Law Commission is due to consider whether Pre-Nuptial Agreements should be officially recognised by Courts of Law, following the ground-breaking case of Radmacher and Granatino in 2010.
Civil Partnerships
Developed in order to afford couples legal rights identical to those of their married counterparts, Civil Partnerships are now formally recognised within British law and, as such, must adhere to the correct legal procedures when dissolution of the agreement is sought by either or both partners.
At brains solicitors, we can assist individuals to negotiate acceptable terms when terminating Civil Partnerships, regardless of their position as instigator or receiver of any legal action.