By Gemma Gillespie, Associate Solicitor
Please see this very interesting article on the BBC Website. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-42134722
As a solicitor with over 20 years’ experience there have been times during my career when there has been little that can be done to protect someone at the end of an unmarried relationship, this is particularly the case when there are no children or the children are adults.
One case that sticks out in my memory was of a lady in her early 60s who had brought up the parties’ child and worked exhaustively in the parties’ B&B. The large house was in the sole name of her partner. In the end the Court of Appeal agreed with the trial judge that regretfully she had no interest in the property. It was a stark case of real injustice, if she had taken legal advice when her son was a minor then she could have secured a lump sum or sums for his benefit.
Obtaining advice from a solicitor early on, or even before living together, could have changed everything for this woman.
If you would like advice about this issue or any other family matters please contact Gemma Gillespie on 01892 515022.
