One of the biggest misconceptions I come across is the belief that if you live together for long enough, you become a "common law husband" or "common law wife." Unfortunately, this is a myth. In England and Wales, there is no legal status known as a common law...
Why Every Unmarried Couple Needs an Up-to-Date Will
If you're living with your partner but you're not married or in a civil partnership, having an up-to-date Will is one of the most important legal documents you can have. Many couples wrongly believe that if they have lived together for years, bought a home together or...
What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
Living Together? Don't Assume the Law Will Protect You More couples than ever are choosing to live together without getting married or entering into a civil partnership. Unfortunately, many people still believe in the myth of the "common law marriage." The truth is...
Proposed Changes to the Law for Unmarried Couples in England and Wales (2026)
Could the law finally be changing for unmarried couples? In June 2026, the UK Government announced proposals that could give unmarried couples in England and Wales greater legal protection when they separate. If you've seen headlines suggesting that "common law...




