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    Living Together

    More couples are now choosing to live together and share their lives without getting married. Whilst emotionally you may feel no different to a married couple; under the law, couples that live together without getting married do not share the same legal rights as those who marry. This can make things difficult if the relationship breaks down in the future particularly in regards to finance and property. If children are involved, it is also important to protect their future as well.

    Although separating may be the last thing on your mind presently, if you are currently living with, or intend to live with a partner, it is sensible to plan for the future by creating a living together agreement (sometimes called a cohabitation agreement). In the event you and your partner decide to separate in the future, this agreement documents the financial arrangements between you. In the enent of a future separation, they can help to reduce conflict and disagreement.

    We find that those who create a living together agreement whilst in a strong, loving relationship succeed in negotiating a financial agreement in a much more timely and cost effective manner than those dealing with financial matters following a complicated separation at a later date.

    We understand that every couple is different and with this in mind we will draft a customised agreement that reflects your personal circumstances. The agreement will seek to protect both you and your partner and set out each of your responsibilities in the event of a separation. With the agreement in place you can move forward with more certainty and having a better sense of the financial implications that would emerge upon separation.

    At Dunn & Baker Solicitors, we offer a FREE initial consultation to explore the issues involved together with the likely costs and timescales particular to your needs. Contact us today.

    Team members

    Becca Rozier
    Paralegal
    Exeter
    Contact
    Darren Cleverdon
    Partner / Solicitor / Head of Family Department
    Exeter
    Contact
    Emma Benyon-Tinker
    Associate Solicitor
    Exeter
    Contact

    Expert legal advice you can rely on:


    Family Law

    In today’s modern world there is no such thing as an ‘average’ family or ‘normal’ relationship. You may be married, living together, or separated. Children, step-children or adopted children are perhaps living with you or living elsewhere. Grandparents or other family members could also be involved. Whatever your situation, relationships can sometimes break down and that’s when turning to a legal expert can really help you to resolve difficulties quickly.

    Adoption

    If you decide to adopt a child, either in the UK or from overseas, having expert legal advice is key. Dunn & Baker Solicitors can support you in this highly complex legal area.

    Arrangements for Children

    When a relationship breaks down and children are involved, your main concern will be to protect their wellbeing. At Dunn & Baker Solicitors we make your children our number one priority too. We never lose sight of the fact that your children’s wellbeing comes first.

    Divorce and Separation

    If you are contemplating divorce or separation, it is helpful to obtain legal advice as soon as possible so that you know what your options are. If you decide to proceed with a divorce or separation, it is natural to have lots of questions about the process. This might include the impact on your children, home, possessions and finances.

    Domestic Abuse

    If you are in an abusive relationship or you feel threatened and intimidated, it can be difficult to know where to turn to for help. It is important not to suffer in silence. Asking for help is the first step to try and resolve the situation.

    Family Law Fact Sheets

    Legal Matters Regarding Children

    If you are contacted by Children's Services for any reason, having expert legal advice is vital. Dunn & Baker Solicitors can support you at this difficult time.

    Living Together

    More couples are now choosing to live together and share their lives without getting married. Whilst emotionally you may feel no different to a married couple; under the law, couples that live together without getting married do not share the same legal rights as those who marry. This can make things difficult if the relationship breaks down in the future particularly in regards to finance and property. If children are involved, it is also important to protect their future as well.

    Mediation

    Dunn & Baker Solicitors are pleased to be able to offer an additional service of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). There is an increasing sense of expectation and in some instances requirement by the courts to encourage parties, whether they are former partners or business contacts, to explore a solution to the dispute in question by utilising ADR. We are able to offer mediation and also Collaborative Family Law as two independent processes to assist discussion, reduce impasse and increase the prospects of reaching an agreement that both parties can, at least, live with and move forward. ADR can help to reduce both the financial and emotional cost of disputes, particularly where a family situation is being considered. These problem solving alternatives can enable the parties to set their own priorities and agenda whilst concentrating on a solution focussed outcome.

    Pre-Marital Agreements

    Planning a wedding or civil partnership is an exciting time and also a life event when you begin to think about your long-term future. It is hope you will have a long and happy marriage but it is also natural to wonder what the landscape might look like if you later separate or divorce.

    Have a question or need some help? Call us today on 01392 330780

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    Why Dunn & Baker Solicitors?

    Dunn & Baker Solicitors are part of the QualitySolicitors Network which is the largest network of law firms in the UK, with firms spanning the whole of England and Wales and customer service at the heart of what they do.

    We are dedicated to providing the highest quality legal advice and expertise for our clients in a way that friendly, accessible and clear-talking.