There is no such thing as 'common law marriage'. Heterosexual unmarried couples in England and Wales do not have the same legal rights as married couples. This website summarises the differences in the rights of cohabitees and those who are married.
Many people (61%, according to a recent survey*) mistakenly believe that simply living together can give you the same rights as marriage. They believe that 'common-law marriage' is a recognised legal status. They are wrong.
Others believe that by having a child together they acquire legal rights**, whether married, civil partnered, or not. They too are mistaken.
Only couples who get married or register a civil partnership will acquire legal rights and responsibilities in relation to each other.
We often don't check out our rights because it seems unromantic, untrusting even, to raise legal and financial issues. But exploring the common 'What ifs?' - those situations that may leave us vulnerable - before difficulties arise, puts couples and families on a more secure footing.
Whether you are married, civil partnered or not, on these pages you will find the facts you need to explore the tricky issues.
