Words by Notable Notaries
What’s New
The Government has announced a majour consultation on family law reform which could lead to the most significant changes to the rights of unmarried couples in decades. Full details of the announcement can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/millions-of-unmarried-couples-to-get-stronger-rights
Under the proposed reforms, qualifying unmarried couples could gain greater financial protection if their relationship ends, including potential rights relating to property, financial provision and inheritance. It remains to be seen whether foreign-held assets will be impacted.
More certainty for bereaved unmarried partners, or for unmarried couples following a separation:
If implemented, the reforms could provide greater legal certainty for unmarried couples who have built their lives together but currently have limited legal protection. Bereaved unmarried partners may gain automatic inheritance rights where a partner dies without leaving a will. The consultation also considers stronger protections for financially vulnerable partners and survivors of domestic abuse.
Who is Affected
- Unmarried couples who have lived at the same address for more than 3 years, or who have a child.
- These conditions may be subject to change following the consultation, so all unmarried couples may wish to pay close attention to the development of these reforms.
- Married couples, as the reforms may also change divorce law.
- Individuals considering entering into pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreements, which may also be affected.
Key Dates
- Consultation launched: 5 June 2026.
- Consultation closes: 14 August 2026.
- The Government will consider responses before deciding whether to introduce legislation.
Next steps.
The government is asking the public, legal professionals, academics, charities and other stakeholders to share their views on these reforms by 14 August 2026: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/a-fairer-end-to-relationships/a-fairer-end-to-relationships-consultation-document
Depending on the outcome of the reforms, individuals and couples who do not wish their state of affairs to be changed by the reforms may wish to consider executing documents such as wills, cohabitation agreements or pre-nuptial agreements.
For more information, please contact us on +44(0)2079521100 or [email protected]
Words by Notable Notaries