The legal rights of unmarried couples living together
Living together without getting married is a common choice for many couples. However, it’s essential to understand the legal differences
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The legal and financial matters might be complex, but we aim to keep things straightforward and explain everything in terms that are relevant to you.
Ending a civil partnership can be emotionally complex. We provide calm, clear advice to help you understand the process and your options. Our focus is on helping you reach resolution with clarity, so you can begin the next chapter with confidence.
The legal process of ending a civil partnership is called ‘dissolution’. We guide you through the legal grounds for dissolution and handle the court process, explaining what is required and why. First steps are:
We have more information for you here in: Understanding civil partnerships – Your comprehensive guide
The basis for dissolving a civil partnership is the “irretrievable breakdown of the partnership” which can be established by unreasonable behaviour, two years’ separation by consent, five years’ separation or two years’ desertion.
Alongside the legal process, we help you address financial arrangements and maintenance, aiming for fair and workable outcomes. We can negotiate on your behalf to reach a financial settlement, and resolve any issues of financial maintenance.
Our legal experts will take you through the whole process, from court applications to giving the reasons for dissolution to discussion practical issues, such as dividing your finances, with your partner.
View our fixed-fee family law consultation page ,we offer compassionate, expert guidance from an experienced solicitor, focused on you and your next steps.
Tees have a very client focused, bespoke approach which is of a very high standard. They are consistently pushing for their clients and achieve good outcomes for them.
If you’re ending a civil partnership, our family lawyers can help you with:
Tees is a full-service top-tier Legal 500 firm offering a comprehensive range of family law services, from divorce and civil partnership mediation to court proceedings, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and more.
We work with clients across the spectrum, from those with complex financial situations to those with simpler needs.
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Tees Law does not provide Legal Aid. You can find more information here about Legal Aid and eligibility requirements.
We have a team of in-house independent financial advisers who work closely with our lawyers to deliver all the advice you need. Our IFAs are regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority, which means we are accountable for all the advice we give.
If you want a lawyer to take a closer look at your situation, our family and divorce lawyers are based in:
But we can help you wherever you are in England and Wales.
Understanding your legal relationship status is crucial, especially when life changes. Whether you’re considering entering a civil partnership or facing the prospect of dissolution, knowing your rights around finances, property, and children can protect your future. Our expert family law solicitors explain everything you need to know about civil partnerships, how they differ from marriage, and what steps to take if your relationship breaks down, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Living together without getting married is a common choice for many couples. However, it’s essential to understand the legal differences
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What is a civil partnership? A civil partnership is a way for couples, whether heterosexual or same sex, to formalise
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While you can apply for a dissolution yourself, taking legal advice early can make a significant difference — particularly where property, pensions, business interests or children are involved.
A specialist family solicitor can:
Protect your financial position
Negotiate a fair settlement
Draft a legally binding consent order
Help you avoid costly mistakes
At Tees, our family law team provides clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances.
The court fee for filing a dissolution application is set by HM Courts & Tribunals Service. Legal costs will depend on the complexity of your situation and whether matters are agreed or contested.
We are transparent about costs from the outset and will discuss the most cost-effective approach for resolving financial matters and child arrangements.
The legal process takes a minimum of 26 weeks from application to final order. However, resolving finances can take longer depending on the assets involved and whether agreement can be reached.
Seeking early advice often helps to streamline the process and reduce stress.
There is no automatic formula. The court considers fairness based on factors such as financial needs, income, contributions and the welfare of any children.
Assets can include:
The family home and other property
Savings and investments
Pensions
Business interests
Reaching a financial settlement and securing a consent order is essential to prevent future claims.
Yes. Many civil partnership dissolutions are handled constructively through negotiation or mediation. Our approach focuses on reducing conflict wherever possible while protecting your long-term interests.
If court proceedings become necessary, we provide robust and pragmatic representation.
The first step is to obtain tailored legal advice so you understand:
Your financial position
Your rights and potential claims
The likely timescales
The options available to you
Speaking to a specialist early can provide clarity and reassurance at what is often a difficult time.
