Assumption: "I have been living with my partner for 15 years and we have children. Surely under law I am now his common-law wife, which means I will therefore be entitled to the same rights as a married woman?"
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
Court Reality
There is no 'common-law marriage' in England and Wales — having children together doesn't change that. You may have claims under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989 for the children's benefit (such as housing or maintenance), but these are for the children, not personal financial rights as a partner.
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The Gap?
"I have been living with my partner for 15 years and we have children. Surely under law I am now his common-law wife, which means I will therefore be entitled to the same rights as a married woman?"
Court Reality
There is no 'common-law marriage' in England and Wales — having children together doesn't change that. You may have claims under Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989 for the children's benefit (such as housing or maintenance), but these are for the children, not personal financial rights as a partner.
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