Hassle-free help from the UK's best Family solicitors.
Transparent pricing, from start to finishGet the support you need, when you need itTrusted lawyers, clear expectations
Transparent pricing, from start to finishGet the support you need, when you need itTrusted lawyers, clear expectations
Amazing experience
After placing an enquiry, I received a call 20 minutes later, and then 2 hours later, I had a solicitor assigned to me. They were absolutely incredible right from the word go - amazing and very prompt with replies, answering all my questions and keeping the process moving. We finally completed today and I am so unbelievably happy. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Lawhive again in the future if needed.
Lily
First class service
I initially made an online enquiry about a tricky conveyancing matter and received an immediate call back. They understood straight away what was needed and gave me a quote that was very reasonable. It was such a pleasure to find someone who was cheerful, professional and completely reassuring as I’d been getting quite anxious about the sale of my house. The service Lawhive has provided is absolutely first class and I cannot recommend them enough.
Charles
Empathetic, professional and efficient
I am an executor, selling my mother's home. I found the assistance I received from Lawhive first rate - empathetic, professional and efficient.
Mark
Great service from Lawhive
We used Lawhive for our conveyancing needs and our solicitor was very helpful, patient and informative. She helped us with our needs with prompt responses and provided a very efficient service.
Kelvin
Great service when you need clarity and calm
Our solicitor was warm, friendly and provided crystal clear communication. A lot of conveyancers assume customers know everything about the process already, so it was really appreciated to hear each stage included in the price given.
Em
Quick and efficient
We used Lawhive for a transfer of property and conveyancing. Our solicitor was so helpful and thorough with the whole process. He responded quickly and efficiently to any questions or requests that we had and explained some of the more complicated issues regarding the process clearly.
Geri
Fantastic service and experience with Lawhive
I had the pleasure of working with Lawhive doing a transfer of equity on a property. Our solicitor’s service was amazing, she responded quickly to any questions or concerns and kept me updated throughout the process. I can strongly recommend her for any conveyancing work that you may need. Fantastic service all round.
Jane
Amazing experience
After placing an enquiry, I received a call 20 minutes later, and then 2 hours later, I had a solicitor assigned to me. They were absolutely incredible right from the word go - amazing and very prompt with replies, answering all my questions and keeping the process moving. We finally completed today and I am so unbelievably happy. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Lawhive again in the future if needed.
Lily
First class service
I initially made an online enquiry about a tricky conveyancing matter and received an immediate call back. They understood straight away what was needed and gave me a quote that was very reasonable. It was such a pleasure to find someone who was cheerful, professional and completely reassuring as I’d been getting quite anxious about the sale of my house. The service Lawhive has provided is absolutely first class and I cannot recommend them enough.
Charles
Empathetic, professional and efficient
I am an executor, selling my mother's home. I found the assistance I received from Lawhive first rate - empathetic, professional and efficient.
Mark
Great service from Lawhive
We used Lawhive for our conveyancing needs and our solicitor was very helpful, patient and informative. She helped us with our needs with prompt responses and provided a very efficient service.
Kelvin
Great service when you need clarity and calm
Our solicitor was warm, friendly and provided crystal clear communication. A lot of conveyancers assume customers know everything about the process already, so it was really appreciated to hear each stage included in the price given.
Em
Quick and efficient
We used Lawhive for a transfer of property and conveyancing. Our solicitor was so helpful and thorough with the whole process. He responded quickly and efficiently to any questions or requests that we had and explained some of the more complicated issues regarding the process clearly.
Geri
Fantastic service and experience with Lawhive
I had the pleasure of working with Lawhive doing a transfer of equity on a property. Our solicitor’s service was amazing, she responded quickly to any questions or concerns and kept me updated throughout the process. I can strongly recommend her for any conveyancing work that you may need. Fantastic service all round.
Jane
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01 overview
Whether you're a cohabiting couple or just sharing a property, we're here to support you with top-notch legal advice. Our team of cohabitation dispute solicitors can help with everything from reviewing agreements to representing you through court proceedings. Here's how Lawhive can help:
| Providing clarity on your rights | Our solicitors can help clarify your legal rights and where your stand. Legal advice will acknowledge both parties' position and their rights and responsibilities. Your solicitor can help clarify relevant laws and find ways to offer greater financial security when cohabiting. |
| Drafting cohabitation agreements | A cohabitation dispute solicitor can help draft cohabitation agreements . These agreements cover financial and practical issues. They outline each partner’s responsibilities in terms of assets, which can lead to fewer disputes if a break-up occurs down the line. The cohabitation agreement will specify the terms of asset division, property rights and financial contributions. |
| Enforcing cohabitation agreements | If a separation does occur, a solicitor can enforce the agreement to ensure both parties will uphold their responsibilities. A solicitor can also help draft a declaration of trust which defines the interest each partner has in the property. This will help clarify how the equity is split when a property is sold and ensure the partners both get their fair contribution. |
| Representing clients in court | Your cohabitating solicitor can also act as representation if the dispute goes to court. They can also arrange mediation and negotiate with the other party if necessary. They will work to make sure there is a fair outcome for both parties. This is often the step that is taken when property or financial disputes can’t be resolved independently. The court can enforce the agreement and ensure a fair outcome. |
| Negotiating settlements | A solicitor plays an important role in negotiating settlements between cohabiting partners. They can value the property and assets and look at contributions from each member of the couple. They can work out a fair division of property, assets and any financial responsibilities. This can help to make sure that both individuals are responsible financially and can be used if court action is taken. |
We don't believe getting legal help should be difficult. Our network of licensed family solicitors are on hand to give fast, affordable legal advice. Here's why you might prefer Lawhive over a traditional law firm:
The rights and laws around cohabitation are different to that of a married couple. That also means the types of disputes differ too. No matter the dispute, our team of expert solicitors will help find a legal resolution that works for you. Here are some of the main disputes that arise between cohabiting partners:
One of the main disputes that can arise is when a property is shared between cohabitors but only one partner is the registered owner. Property solicitors can look at reviewing agreements and contributions around ownership to clarify each of the cohabitor’s rights.
They can help draft a declaration of trust which is a legally binding document and can be put in place before purchasing. It can record the financial arrangement of a property which can help in cohabitation situations and stop disputes further down the line. They can also arrange court proceedings if necessary to resolve cohabitation property disputes.
Disputes over shared assets and financial contributions require legal advice and guidance. Whether it’s household expenses or property improvements, the share of contributions can cause debates. Solicitors will look at the contributions of both parties and work on a cohabiting settlement that is fair and accurate. They can help to find equitable resolutions which will look at the needs of both parties to make a fair and just decision on financial contributions.
For cohabiting partners who do not have the same rights as married couples, there can be challenges when it comes to inheritance. They can face no financial support or inherited property when their partner dies. This is particularly common if there is no will in place so no clear benefactor.
Solicitors can help to make arrangements such as creating a will or a cohabitation agreement prior to death. This legal agreement can make the wishes clear of both parties. It can help clients secure financial protection such as arranging for beneficiary rights with pensions and insurance.
When there are issues relating to children when cohabiting partners separate, child custody solicitors can help to resolve those issues. They can help with gaining visitation rights and the terms of the financial support arrangement. They can set up negotiations with the other partner and discuss legal action if necessary to secure better financial support.
Cohabitation disputes can vary and no two cases are the same. With Lawhive, you'll get a personalised, free, fixed-fee quote before you get started.
When it comes to drafting a cohabitation agreement, there are particular fees you might expect. Within your quote, you might need to pay for:
For dispute resolution, there are also several services involved. You might typically need to pay for:
No two disputes are the same. Our team of legal experts will provide you with a tailored strategy and timelines that work for you. For a snapshot of what this might look like, here are the most common steps in the resolution process:
The dispute resolution process will begin with your solicitor assessing your situation. This will help them to clarify the responsibilities and rights of the cohabiting couple. They'll conduct an initial consultation which will let them review any existing cohabitation agreements in place or declarations of trust. They can also make a rights assessment which will clarify the rights of the client and what their obligations are.
The next step might be for the solicitor to draft a cohabitation agreement. The cohabitation agreement will protect both partner’s interests and help to prevent any disputes. For example, it might outline a fair amount for the contributions both parties have made during the partnership. This could be a property or assets that the couple share.
Your cohabitation dispute solicitor might suggest negotiation or mediation. This can help the cohabiting couple to resolve disputes peacefully and amicably (without going to court). Typically, this involves a neutral third party who will guide the parties on the best course of action. These processes are both used to help find a resolution without taking the costly next step of court intervention.
If negotiation does not lead to an agreement, your solicitors will represent you in court. They can present the evidence to prove the contribution. They can also present the cohabitation agreement to show the legally agreed rights of both parties (which the court can enforce).
The solicitor will then put in place what has been agreed, whether that is a mediation outcome or court action. They can help to make sure this goes to plan and discuss potential follow-up actions such as an appeal if required.
Whether you're looking to buy a property or secure your assets for the future, legal advice is essential in cohabitation cases. Solicitors are also key when there are cohabitation disputes. They can help to find a solution that works for both individuals to make sure there's a fair outcome.
Lawhive can provide quick, affordable cohabitation dispute advice. Whether that's drafting a cohabitation settlement or arranging a mediation session, our team are experts in providing a strategy that works best for you.
With straightforward pricing - so you know exactly what to expect at every step.
