Ending a relationship when you’re living together

If you are living with your partner and your relationship ends, you do not have to take any legal action to separate. However, there may be issues about children, housing, property and money to sort out. If you have children, a court can make orders about who the children should live with and have contact with. A court can also make an order about rights to stay in your home and selling any jointly-owned property.

Separating with a separation agreement

A separation agreement is a written agreement between a couple who intend to stop living together. It sets out how you wish to sort out issues about money, property and arrangements for the children.

The advantage of a written agreement is that it’s easier to make sure that you both understand what has been agreed.

Children at the end of your relationship

It is best if you and your partner can come to a friendly arrangement about the care of your children. This arrangement should include who your children will normally live with and how they will stay in touch with the other parent.

What can mediators c.s. do for you ?

The mediator will inform you about your legal position and work with you on a suitable solution. If you come to agreement on matters, the mediator will record them in a separation agreement and / or parenting plan.