Statistics released by Resolution today indicate that nearly half of unmarried couples are unaware that they do not have the same legal rights as a married couple should they separate. Whilst this is nothing new, it reinforces the pressing need for reform to the current law. It further raises concerns that cohabiting couples may feel forced to stay in an unhappy and possibly unhealthy relationship for fear of financial hardship in the event of separation.

Resolution has drawn up a "vision for family justice" blueprint setting out proposed reforms to the current cohabitation law. Such proposals include cohabitees meeting eligibility criteria to indicate a committed relationship which would give them an automatic right to apply for certain financial remedies if they later separate. This is certainly a step in the right direction and it is hoped that the “vision for family justice" blueprint will continue to raise awareness of the lack of legal protection for unmarried couples.