Menu
Clare Radcliffe

Clare Radcliffe comments on proposed cohabitation reforms

Posted on 1 September 2026

Reading time 1 minute

Clare Radcliffe, Partner in the Family team, has commented in The i Paper, the Law Society Gazette and the Mail on Sunday on proposed reforms to the financial rights of cohabiting couples. 

Clare discussed the prospect of greater protection for long-term cohabitants but cautioned that the proposed eligibility criteria could be too broad, particularly for young, childless couples who may move in together primarily to reduce costs. She also highlighted the possible implications for parents who contribute towards a child’s house deposit. 

Commenting on the proposed three-year qualifying period, Clare said: “Three years when you are young and haven’t got any children and are just starting out is not the same as three years when you are 35 and in a relationship. Care will be needed to ensure that the identification of potential claimants is not too broad.

Read the coverage: 

Watch the Mishcon Minute

 

How can we help you?
Help

How can we help you?

Subscribe: I'd like to keep in touch

If your enquiry is urgent please call +44 20 3321 7000

I'm a client

I'm looking for advice

Something else