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08 June 2026
The government is to publish its long awaited family law consultation to strengthen the rights of over 3.5 million unmarried couples.
Why the proposed reforms matter for unmarried couples
Cohabiting couples are the fastest growing family type, yet the law has not kept pace with modern family life. Read more about the current legal rights of unmarried couples living together.
Melanie Bataillard-Samuel, Chair of Resolution, said: “For too long, unmarried partners have been placed at risk of significant financial hardship and uncertainty when their relationship comes to an end through separation or death. The current law has simply not kept pace with changes in society, and often enables perpetrators of domestic abuse to continue that abuse after a relationship has ended.
“Today’s announcement is a welcome and significant step towards ending the endemic unfairness for cohabiting couples that Resolution’s 6,500 members see day in, day out. We look forward to these reforms being implemented to create a system that is fit for modern society.”
This cause has been campaigned for by Resolution for many years whose view has consistently been that reform in this area is overdue.
Who could qualify under the new framework
The government is proposing that cohabitants should have lived together for at least 3 years or share a child to access the framework and courts must be satisfied that there is an enduring family relationship. The aim is to ensure “our new family law builds a fair system that offers the vulnerable protection in the event of a break up” said David Lammy, Justice secretary.
The consultation will last until 14 August 2026 after which the findings will be considered before policy can be finalised.
The family team at Battens will keep up to date with the proposals and reforms, should you have any questions about your status as an unmarried person in a long term relationship, please get in touch with our team.
