Cohabitation Agreement Solicitors in Cheltenham
Clear legal advice for couples living together without being married
Cohabitation Agreements Explained
If you live with your partner but are not married or in a civil partnership, the law does not give you the same rights as married couples. Many people are unaware of this and assume they are protected as “common law spouses”, which is not the case in England and Wales.
At Pembridge Solicitors, we are Cheltenham-based solicitors advising couples on cohabitation agreements. From our Cheltenham office, we help clients put clear legal arrangements in place to protect their property, finances, and future should the relationship come to an end.
What is a cohabitation agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a written agreement between two people who live together but are not married or in a civil partnership. It sets out how finances, property and other practical matters will be handled during the relationship and what should happen if the relationship ends.
The agreement can cover issues such as ownership of property, how household costs are shared, savings, debts and what happens to joint or individual assets. Its purpose is to provide certainty and reduce the risk of disagreement if circumstances change in the future.
What a Cohabitation Agreement Can Cover
A cohabitation agreement can be tailored to suit your circumstances. Common provisions include arrangements relating to:
ownership of property and how sale proceeds would be divided
responsibility for mortgage payments, rent, and household bills
treatment of savings, debts, and personal assets
arrangements if one partner contributes more financially than the other
The agreement can also record intentions about future changes, such as buying a property together or one partner moving into the other’s home.
The cohabitation agreement process explained
The process begins with an open discussion about finances and practical arrangements. Both parties should provide clear information about their financial position so the agreement reflects the full picture.
Once this information is available, the agreement is drafted to reflect what has been agreed. Each person should receive independent legal advice before signing to ensure the agreement is understood and entered into freely. Your solicitor will guide you through each step and ensure the agreement is prepared carefully and clearly.
How we manage cohabitation agreements
Once instructed, your solicitor will work with you to ensure the agreement reflects your intentions accurately and fairly. We explain the options available, draft the agreement clearly, and ensure the process is handled in a straightforward and structured way.
Our approach is calm and practical, helping couples deal with sensitive discussions constructively and without unnecessary difficulty.
When legal advice is particularly important
Legal advice is especially important where there is a significant difference in financial positions, property ownership, or contributions to household costs. Advice helps ensure the agreement is realistic, balanced and less likely to be challenged in the future.
Taking advice early can help avoid misunderstandings and provide greater certainty for both parties.
Where we serve
Our cohabitation agreement solicitors advise clients across Cheltenham, Gloucester and Tewkesbury, as well as the surrounding areas. Advice can be provided in person or remotely, depending on what works best for you.
Speak to cohabitation agreement solicitors in Cheltenham
If you are considering a cohabitation agreement or would like advice on your options, our solicitors are here to help. We provide clear, practical guidance with discretion and professionalism.
To speak to one of our cohabitation agreement solicitors, call 0330 900 0377 or contact us online to arrange a confidential consultation.
How to Find Us
Pembridge Solicitors
Calderwood House
Montpellier Parade
Cheltenham
GL50 1UA
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