Unmarried Couples and Property
The Supreme Court has ruled today that a man who separated from his partner was only entitled to a 10% share of the property they jointly owned.
Leonard Kernott and Patricia Jones bought a property in joint names which they shared for eight years. On separation Mr Kernott moved out of the property and Ms Jones continued to pay the mortgage on her own for 13 years.
The Court of Appeal had decided that the value should be divided equally between the couple as it was owned jointly. However, the Supreme Court ruling today has overturned this decision and awarded a fairer division of the property.
This is an important decision which could impact the millions of unmarried couples that are currently cohabiting.
Further details will be published here as they become available.
If you would like advice on you rights as an unmarried couple please contact our Family Law or Property Departments for more information.
Please note the above is for information purposes only and is intended to be a short summary. It should not be treated as a comprehensive guide and should not be acted on without qualified legal advice.
