Help Us Shape a Fairer Future for Family Law: Have Your Say
When a relationship ends, the legal system shouldn't make a stressful time even harder. Unfortunately, for cohabiting couples and “common law spouses” this is not always the case.
At Emsleys, we feel the case law and the position should be fair, clear, and reflect modern life. Right now, we all have a rare opportunity to help make that happen.
The government has launched a major public consultation called "A Fairer End to Relationships." Running until 14 August 2026, it’s a genuine chance for anyone, whether you work in law, have been through a breakup, or just care about fairness, to speak up.
You can take part in the consultation and share your thoughts directly via the GOV.UK Consultation Hub.
What does the consultation cover:
The review is looking closely at three big areas:
- Divorce & Money: Modernising how assets and property are split so outcomes are fairer and more predictable.
- Unmarried Couples Separating: Fixing the lack of legal safety nets for cohabiting couples who split up.
- Unmarried Couples & Wills: Reviewing what happens to an estate if a partner passes away without a will.
Our View: Why We Need Modern Cohabitation Laws
“Every day, our family team works with people navigating these exact hurdles. If we could change one thing tomorrow, it would be the rules around cohabitation.
There is still a massive myth out there about ‘common law marriage.’ We regularly meet couples who have lived together for years, raised children, and shared a life, who are devastated to find out they have almost no automatic legal rights if things go wrong. The law simply hasn't kept pace with modern families, and it’s time that changed”- Claire Garside, Emsleys Family Law Team.
Get involved - it only takes a few minutes
You don't need to be a legal expert to reply, and you don’t have to answer the whole document. If there is just one area that matters to you, that’s enough. True change starts with real stories, so please consider having your say before 14 August 2026.
We’re here for you today.
While the laws of tomorrow are being debated, you still have to live in the present. If you need some friendly, straightforward advice on divorce, separation, or protecting your rights as a couple, the Emsleys Family Team is here for you. Please feel free to call us for a no obligation free initial 15 minute consultation on 0113 201 4902 or email us at family.law@emsleys.co.uk and we will arrange to call you back at your convenience.
