Breaking up is hard to do: Advising unmarried separating clients

A guide for unmarried couples who are separating

clock • 5 min read

Nirali Adhia sets out the financial position for unmarried clients who have decided to separate...

Many unmarried couples are under the impression that their rights upon separation as a co-habiting couple are the same as married couples who are separating. This myth needs to be debunked. Whilst the legislation dealing with financial matters upon divorce looks to ensure that both spouses' needs are met and any settlement reached is fair, this is not the same for unmarried couples. Unmarried couples have very few rights although the Labour party has indicated that they would introduce some kind of protections for cohabitees should they win the next election. In many cases where un...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Culture is the most effective risk tool wealth managers are missing out on

Culture is the most effective risk tool wealth managers are missing out on

'Understanding a firm's culture is understanding its risk profile'

Bev Shah
clock 09 January 2026 • 5 min read
FCA sets October 2027 date for implementation of cryptoasset rules

FCA sets October 2027 date for implementation of cryptoasset rules

Issues further guidance

Michael Nelson
clock 09 January 2026 • 1 min read
WH Ireland shareholders back Team takeover in key vote

WH Ireland shareholders back Team takeover in key vote

FCA clearance still required

Sahar Nazir
clock 09 January 2026 • 3 min read