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 a solicitor 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 and Scotland.

About the Author

Philippa Pearson is the author of the 'Separation & Divorce Kit' and 'Unmarried Couples and the Law', both published by Lawpack Publishing. She specialises in all aspects of family law and is a member of the SFLA National Committee, the Lord Chancellor's Ancillary Relief Advisory Group and the SFLA Law Reform Committee. She practices as a solicitor at Norris and Miles solicitors in Tenbury Wells, a firm specialising in family, private client, conveyancing and company law, as well as commercial and civil litigation. She also writes and lectures on many aspects of family law.

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