Unlike married couples who have the Matrimonial Causes Act Matrimonial Causes Act 1973: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1973/18, unmarried couples rely on the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA) to resolve property disputes TOLATA 1996: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1996/41. TOLATA applies to both heterosexual and same-sex couples who have cohabited but never married.

TOLATA distinguishes between legal ownership, reflected in the deed, and beneficial ownership, which considers your financial or non-financial contributions to the property. Even if your name isn’t on the deed, you may have a claim to the property if you made contributions towards the mortgage, renovations, or upkeep.

The key to asserting your beneficial interest is proving your contributions. This can include financial contributions like mortgage payments or property improvements, but also non-financial contributions like caring for the property or children. Keeping records like receipts, bank statements, or written agreements can significantly strengthen your case.

If you can establish a beneficial interest, the legal owner (the trustee) has a responsibility to consider your interests when making decisions about the property. This includes situations like selling the property or renting it out. In case of disagreements, TOLATA empowers courts to intervene and provide fair solutions. These solutions may involve:

• Sale of the Property and Division of Proceeds: This is a common remedy when an amicable agreement cannot be reached. The court will order the sale of the property and divide the proceeds according to your respective beneficial interests.
• Awarding Exclusive Occupancy Rights: In some cases, one partner may be granted exclusive rights to live in the property, often for a specified period. This can be helpful if there are children involved or if one partner has financial hardship.
• Requiring a Buyout from the Other Partner: If one partner wishes to remain in the property, the court may order them to buy out the other partner’s beneficial interest. The value of the buyout will be determined based on your respective contributions.

Married couples have the benefit of the Matrimonial Causes Act, which grants the court broad discretion to consider various factors like the length of the marriage and financial contributions when dividing assets. Unmarried couples, however, don’t have the same automatic legal rights. This is why documenting financial contributions and seeking legal advice early on is crucial to protect your interests during separation.

At DJF Solicitors, our compassionate and experienced civil litigation team understands the complexities of property disputes arising from civil partner separation. We can help you with:

• Clear and Tailored Advice: Our legal experts will analyse your specific situation and provide clear, comprehensive guidance on your rights and options under TOLATA.
• Navigating Mortgage and Contribution Issues: Whether you’re concerned about mortgage liabilities or establishing the value of your contributions, we can guide you through the process and ensure your voice is heard.
• Personalised Support and Representation: We understand that every case is unique. We offer personalised support and representation throughout the process, ensuring your needs are met at every step.

Don’t navigate the complexities of property disputes alone. Contact DJF Solicitors today to schedule a consultation and explore your options for achieving a fair and amicable resolution.