What is a cohabitation agreement?

A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding agreement between a couple living together. The agreement outlines the rights and obligations of each partner and how assets should be shared if one of you becomes ill, dies, or the relationship ends. However, if you wish to provide for how assets should be divided on death, then your wishes must be confirmed in a valid will. It is necessary to keep these updated should there be any changes in your circumstances. Here at VM Family Law, we offer help and support with cohabitation agreements from the very beginning. We will provide you with advice regarding what to consider when drafting a cohabitation agreement, and guide you through every step of the way.

What rights do I have with a cohabitation agreement?

Cohabitating couples do not have the same legal rights as married couples or civil partners, and the law is far more complex if a couple has never been married with couples having no automatic financial claims against the other. This is why it is important to enter into a Cohabitation Agreement, so both parties are clear as to their intentions and entitlements should the worst happen and the relationship break down.

How much does a cohabitation agreement cost?

Cohabitation costs can vary depending on your requirements and whether an agreement has already been reached or whether negotiations are yet to take place. It may be that a fixed fee can be offered but this will be individual to your case and will be discussed with you. At VM Family Law, we are competitive and transparent on our fees, keeping you updated with the ongoing and overall costs so there are no surprises. Contact a member of our team for a free consultation where we will offer support and advice where needed, and the best possible approach together with information on costs.

Family Law Solicitors

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Family Law Solicitors

We are VM Family Law, Bolton’s only niche, highly specialised family law firm.

We were established in 2020 by Victoria Melling, who has been working in family law for over 20 years.

We understand and appreciate the importance of establishing a relationship of trust and partnership with our clients and strive to give straightforward, no-nonsense and practical advice whilst offering excellent value for money.

What do family law solicitors do?

Family law solicitors can assist with divorce, financial settlements, cohabitation agreements, resolving the arrangements for children, such as where they should live or how much time they should spend with a parent or other relative, and protection from domestic abuse.

Family law solicitors explain your legal rights and give advice so you can decide the best solution for you in what can often be a very difficult situation.

Knowing how a family law solicitor can assist you will help you choose the right one for your circumstances. VM Family will help you understand and provide advice in a language that can be understood; we help you through every step of the process.

      
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   Darrell Robinson 
 1 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am going through a separation,  I just didn't know which way to turn, Janet at VM was recommemded by a friend, a full hour of free advice, lots of support, put me at ease.straight away,.felt like I had known her years, lots of information, very very helpful. definitely recommend.
  
 
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   Lee Osborne 
 3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. VM Family Law dealt with my divorce and financial settlement. I would like to thank Victoria and the team for making the process as painless as possible and also keeping me informed during the journey. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing a very professional service.
  
 
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   Nigel Orr 
 6 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Going through a divorce is not an easy time for anybody.  There are lots of people who try and give you advice on such matters  and horror stories about divorced lawyers being blood suckers and very expensive.  Yes, it costs money, but how expensive it will be is down to you being upfront and fully open about your situation.  For my personal situation, I had the team of Ceri Thomas and Julie Stott, who were simply the best. They listened to me intently, spoke to me with a very caring nature, gave me valuable advice, and contacted me very promptly via email with any new updates concerning my situation. After the divorce had come to an end, I felt I was leaving two friends behind as I started my new direction. I appreciate all the work you did for me, Ceri & Julie. So, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the way you are. Thank you 💕
  
 
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   Cat 
 13 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Janet was really helpful, straight to the point and understood my concerns. It was good she has so much experience on which to draw and was able to help answer all my questions and advice sought.
  
 
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   I5HY L 
 23 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Fantastic service from Janet Larkin at this practice. The staff are extremely friendly. Janet was incredibly patient and took the time to explain everything clearly in simple, easy-to-understand terms. I really appreciated her professionalism and helpfulness throughout. Thank you, Janet, and the whole team!
  
 
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   Janet Banks 
 27 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. During my divorce and such a stressful time my solicitor Laura was brilliant. Great advice given throughout and great support at court. The whole practice is great to deal with and are friendly caring and empathetic and I would not hesitate to recommend them.
  
 
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   michael Taylor 
 32 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. VM Family Law and in particular Pamela Donnellan were brilliant to work with. Everything clearly explained and worked for my best interest. Highly recommended.
  
 
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   Christine Parker 
 39 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have just had a consultation with Janet @ VM Family Law Solicitors she was absolutely amazing. She explained everything clearly and professionally and helped me understand my potential options going forward. Your advice was very helpful and much appreciated. Thank you so much.
  
 
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   Leila 
 41 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I would highly recommend Laura and her colleagues for their excellent support throughout my divorce process. They were professional, knowledgeable, kind, and always willing to help with any questions I had. Their guidance made a very difficult time much easier to manage, and I truly appreciated their patience and understanding. Thank you for all your hard work and support.
  
 
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   John Standard 
 48 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very clear and helpful advice received

Who can family law solicitors help?

Family Law Solicitors can help anyone dealing with issues relating to family – we can help whether you are a Wife, Husband, Civil Partner, Mother, Father, Grandparent, Guardian or any other relative.

We can provide advice and guidance on all aspects of family law, are non-judgemental, will keep you informed about each step of the process and even represent you in court if necessary.

Speaking to a family law professional and seeking advice and understanding will help you and your family during a divorce or separation. We know it is an extremely emotional and challenging time for all the family, and expert advice will lead to finding better solutions.

Book a Family Law Solicitor

VM Family Law covers an array of services, helping and guiding you through every stage of your situation:

Our Family Law Services

Divorce Family Law Financial Settlements Child Arrangements Judicial Separation Prenuptial Agreements Cohabitation Disputes Cohabitation Agreements Civil Partnerships Domestic Abuse Support Mediation Services Arbitration

You will deal directly with experienced family law solicitors, ensuring the highest standards of care.

Speak to a member of the team at VM Family Law, who will be happy to book a free consultation of up to one hour so you can receive bespoke legal advice right from the very first appointment.

Team Picture

How much do family law solicitors charge?

Solicitor’s charges can vary depending on the level of experience of the solicitor and the location of the solicitor and the circumstances of the case. Here at VM Family Law, we are all Grade A solicitors as we have all been practising exclusively in family law for many years.

Solicitors usually charge by the hour, although in some situations, we are able to offer a fixed fee. Costs will be discussed with you at your initial free consultation. We will always be open and transparent regarding your fees.

We will keep you updated with charges so there are no surprises, and this is usually through interim monthly invoices. We are committed to delivering a service that meets your individual needs to the highest standards.

Book a Family Law Solicitor

Why choose VM Family Law?

VM Family Law will work closely with you to provide first class legal advice and support. We will be empathetic to your circumstances as we have a personable and approachable manner and will never shy away from difficult conversations or litigation.

We will explain your options in an easy-to-understand language, guide you through every step of the process and listen to what you want to achieve.
Speak to a friendly, approachable member of the team to book a consultation, where we can discuss openly what you would like to achieve and how we can help you do this.

Meet Our Expert Solicitors

Our team of solicitors is recognised for their expertise, commitment, and compassionate approach to family law.

Victoria Melling

Managing Director and Senior Solicitor

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Ceri Thomas

Director and Senior Solicitor

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Amanda Rimmer

Director and Senior Solicitor

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Laura Simmons

Senior Solicitor

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Pamela Donnellan

Senior Solicitor

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Janet Larkin

Consultant Solicitor

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Family Law FAQs

How long does a divorce take?

The length of time a divorce takes can vary, but we’d usually expect an uncontested/straightforward divorce to be complete in a minimum of 6 months. For cases involving complicated property, financial, or custody issues, a more realistic timeframe is 7-12 months.

Do you always have to go to court for a divorce?

You do not always have to go to court for a divorce. Cases typically only end up in court if they involve serious disputes over money, children, or a lack of cooperation from a spouse.

How is child custody decided?

Child arrangements intended to be decided amicably between the two parties. However, if parents do not agree, a family court will make a judgement based on the child’s best interests, evaluating each parent’s capacity and suitability as a caregiver.