The government has launched its long-awaited consultation on reforms that would give cohabiting couples greater financial protections when relationships end, and automatic inheritance rights when a partner dies without a will.
The proposals would also strengthen safeguards for domestic abuse survivors and explore making pre- and post-nuptial agreements legally binding, with minsters arguing the changes would modernise family law and better reflect contemporary relationships. Couples will be considered cohabitants if they have lived together for at least three years or share a child.
Justice secretary David Lammy said: “When a relationship comes to an end, each partner should have the support and certainty they need to rebuild their life. We’re launching this consultation to make sure our new family law builds a fair system that offers the most vulnerable protection in the event of a breakup, and at a time where the country is facing cost of living pressures.
“Whether you’ve been left bereaved by the sudden and unexpected death of a partner, or escaped horrific domestic abuse, our laws should work to protect you. These reforms strike an important balance between tradition and modernity. I’m determined that our justice system should work for everyone who needs it.”
Brett Dixon, vice president of the Law Society of England and Wales said: “The Law Society of England and Wales welcomes and will respond to this long-awaited consultation.
“For too long, millions of people in cohabiting relationships have not had basic financial protections, which is a particular problem if one of them dies or if there is domestic abuse. Updating the law to reflect modern relationships is vital. However, rights are only meaningful if we can all actually access and enforce them. Without legal aid and adequate court resource, these new protections may only exist on paper.”
This story will be updated
