When a couple live together, or cohabit, they do not have legal status as a married couple. This means that, in the event of separation, a cohabiting partner generally cannot claim maintenance or a division of assets in the other person’s name unless they can demonstrate that they made a financial contribution towards the property, such as a deposit or mortgage payments. Even then, it is up to a judge to determine whether the partner is entitled to a share of the property.
Some couples choose to create a Cohabitation Agreement before moving in together. While this agreement can outline financial arrangements and other terms, it may not always be enforceable in court, depending on its content and how it was created.
If you are on a joint tenancy agreement, you should contact your landlord to discuss amending it if necessary. For a sole tenancy agreement, you may need to apply for an Occupancy Order through the court, especially if you have children. A solicitor or a homeless organisation can provide guidance on this process.
An unmarried father automatically has parental responsibility for his child, which includes rights to make decisions regarding the child’s schooling, medical care, religion, and the ability to object to the child’s legal adoption. Maintenance for children and issues related to residency and contact can be addressed through the courts. However, if you are not the legal parent of the child, you may not have rights to remain involved in their upbringing.
