Unmarried Couples
Contrary to popular belief there is no such thing as a common law husband and wife. Unmarried couples dont have the same ties to children and finances as a married couple do.
 |
 |
Finances...
For couples who do not intend to get married but do live together, a 'living together agreement' can act in a similar way to a prenuptial agreement. A living together agreement provides the framework for couples to record their intentions and their respective contributions. This can also eliminate ant fears for the future if the relationship was to break down.
Children...
A unmarried mother automatically has parental rights/responsibility for the child/children. The mother can determine which schools they attend and how, when and if they have access to medical treatment.
The father only has automatic parental rights if:
- He is married to the mother
- The child was born after 1 December 2003 he is named on the birth certificate
The father can gain parental responsility by:
- Marrying the childs mother
- Entering into a voluntary Parental Responsibility Agreement with the mother
- Obtaining a Parental Responsibility Order from the court.
For more information please do not hesitate to contact us.
