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Warning: There is no such thing as a common law wife or husband – you must act if you want legal protection in your relationship.

In the mid-1960s only five per cent of single women lived with a man before getting married. By the 1990s, this figure had risen to 70 per cent. However, despite this massive change in people's lifestyles over the years, the law has not been so eager to keep up-to-date.

The legal and financial issues involved in living together are important. Legislation recognises married couples as special but often ignores the relationship between unmarried people. This can undermine your position financially and emotionally, if you separate or your partner dies.

Written by Philippa Pearson, a partner at Family Law in Partnership, who specialise in family law, this book covers the key legal issues that affect couples living together – from property and finances, children and illness to what to do in the event of separation or death.

Valid in England & Wales only.

However long you have lived with someone, even if you have children together, you may still have no rights at all.

1. Things to consider when you decide to live together
2. Children
3. Domestic violence
4. Splitting up
5. Gay and lesbian rights
6. Benefits and taxation