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England

Relationship breakdown law for joint owning cohabiting couples

Legislation covering relationship breakdown issues of joint owning cohabiting couples combines family and property law.

This content applies to England & Wales

Family law

The Family Law Act 1996 gives each cohabitant the right to apply for an occupation order of the family home. It also allows the court to order a transfer of liabilities in respect of a family home owned solely by one of the partners. For cohabitants with children, the Children Act 1989 may also allow one partner to apply for a transfer of ownership in the interests of the child.

Property law

Property law explains the legal position of joint owners in relation to their interest in the home. Using property law principles, courts can establish what interests are held in the home, but they cannot transfer or redistribute those interests. Of particular relevance to relationship breakdown is the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996. Where family law applies, it can override property law rights.