Cohabitation Dispute Solicitors in Buckinghamshire
Legal Support for Unmarried Couples After Separation
When a relationship between unmarried partners breaks down, there’s no divorce process to fall back on – and no automatic rights to share in property, pensions, or financial assets. This often comes as a shock, especially after years of living together and contributing financially.
At Davis Law, we help individuals across Buckinghamshire resolve disputes after cohabitation ends. Whether you’re concerned about who owns the home, what happens to shared savings, or what your rights are around children, we provide clear, practical legal advice.
Cohabitation disputes can be complicated and emotionally charged. Our job is to help you navigate them calmly, confidently, and with your long-term interests protected.
Common Issues in Cohabitation Disputes
When unmarried couples separate, the law treats them very differently from married couples. There’s no right to claim maintenance or automatic share in assets – so disputes often arise around:
- Ownership of property (especially if it’s in one person’s name)
- Contributions to mortgage payments or renovations
- Joint bank accounts or savings
- Debts and financial liabilities
- Pensions or business interests
- Child arrangements or parental responsibility
We also advise clients whose families have financially supported a relationship – for example, where parents have gifted a house deposit and want to understand their rights.
How We Can Help
- Expert advice on your legal position
- Review of financial contributions and beneficial interests
- Representation in TOLATA (Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act) claims
- Negotiation of settlements or property transfers
- Advice on court proceedings where needed
- Support with linked issues such as child arrangements or protective orders
Where possible, we’ll help you resolve matters through negotiation or mediation. But where court proceedings are necessary, we offer strong representation to protect your position and secure a fair outcome.
Disputes Over Property Ownership
One of the most common and difficult issues we deal with is when a property is in one person’s name, but the other has contributed financially or believes they are entitled to a share. In these cases, we assess:
- Whether a beneficial interest exists
- Whether there was a clear agreement or shared intention
- Contributions made to the deposit, mortgage, or improvements
- How the property is legally owned (joint tenants or tenants in common)
We can advise on legal remedies under TOLATA, and help make or defend claims relating to property rights after cohabitation.
Speak to a Cohabitation Dispute Solicitor Today
If your relationship has ended and you’re facing uncertainty over property, finances, or children, we’re here to help. Our team will provide the legal clarity and support you need to move forward confidently.
Contact our Solicitors in Buckinghamshire today for trusted, experienced legal advice on cohabitation disputes.
FAQs – Cohabitation Disputes Legal Advice
Do unmarried couples have the same rights as married couples?
No. There is no such thing as a “common law marriage” in the UK. If you’re not married or in a civil partnership, you don’t have the same automatic financial rights.
What if we bought the house together but I’m not on the deeds?
You may still have a legal interest if you contributed financially. We can help you assess your claim and take legal steps to protect your position.
Can I claim maintenance from my ex-partner?
Generally, no – unless you have children together. In that case, child maintenance may apply. We can advise on your rights and help you apply for child arrangements or financial support for children.
Do I need a solicitor for a cohabitation dispute?
Yes. These cases are often complex and emotionally difficult. A solicitor can help clarify your legal rights, protect your interests, and avoid costly mistakes or delays.