There are many people who choose to live together without getting married or becoming civil partners.

The idea of ‘common law marriage’ is a bit of folklore that permeates many peoples thinking. The belief that they will automatically benefit from legal safeguards if their relationship breaks down or one partner dies is quite wrong.

Their relationship with each another has no legal standing, and they have no special status in English law.

If you do not have a Will, as you are not related, should one die their estate will pass to their immediate family under the intestacy rules, rather than to their partner (except their share in the home if they are joint owners and hold as joint tenants). The surviving partner cannot get involved in administering the estate either.

If you do have Wills, do they suit your circumstances as unmarried partners?

Whatever a common law wife may have meant in the past it will not give the surviving partner any help should either one of you die intestate.

If you would like some advice or to arrange a visit please can call FREEPHONE 0800 878 6565 or 07942 959599 or use our contact page and we will call you back.

Affordable peace of mind for people from all walks of life and for those not wanting the cost of a high street solicitor.

The home visit Will service is available in Berkshire, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Similar Posts:

• What is a Will?
• New rules for distribution of an estate following intestacy.
• Happy New Year but no Will?
• Unmarried couples and Lasting Power of Attorney
• If You Die Will it Kill Your Business ?