Valentine’s Day and Family Law – Love, Marriage and Legal Matters
13 Feb 2025
Valentine’s Day is often seen as a time to celebrate love, commitment and connection. For many, it marks a day of romantic gestures, proposals and the beginning of lifelong commitments.
However, Amelia Fernley, Family Lawyer at Sinclair Law Solicitors, notes that:
“Valentine’s Day can also bring relationship complexities to the surface, serving as a reminder of both the joys and challenges of family life. Valentine’s Day can intersect with family law in surprising ways, from engagements to separations. In our latest blog, I explore the legal aspects of love, marriage and relationships in England and Wales, offering insights into how family law shapes these significant milestones.”
1. Engagements and the legal implications of marriage
Valentine’s Day proposals are common, but before saying “yes,” it’s worth considering the legal implications of marriage. In England and Wales, marriage is more than a romantic union – it’s a legal contract that impacts your rights and responsibilities in areas such as property ownership, finances and inheritance.
Pre-nuptial agreements
Couples planning to marry often overlook the importance of pre-nuptial agreements, but these can be particularly relevant if one or both partners have significant assets or are entering a second marriage. While not 100% legally binding in England and Wales, courts are increasingly willing to consider them, provided they are fair and entered into freely.
These agreements can protect assets in case of separation and provide clarity on financial expectations within the relationship. A romantic Valentine’s Day proposal may also include a practical conversation about financial planning and legal protections.
Financial responsibilities
Marriage brings financial obligations. If the relationship breaks down, both parties may be required to support each other financially, even beyond separation, through spousal maintenance or asset division during divorce proceedings.
2. Valentine’s Day and cohabiting couples
Amelia highlights that “Not every couple celebrating Valentine’s Day will be married. Many couples live together without formalising their relationship through marriage or civil partnership. However, contrary to popular belief, the concept of a “common-law marriage” does not exist in England and Wales.”
Cohabitation rights
Cohabiting couples do not automatically acquire the same legal rights as married couples. For instance, if a relationship ends, a cohabiting partner may have no claim to property that is not in their name, regardless of their contributions. This makes it essential to consider a cohabitation agreement, which can set out financial arrangements and protect each party’s interests.
Amelia emphasises that: “Valentine’s Day is a reminder of the importance of love, trust and commitment. Whether you’re celebrating a new engagement, navigating cohabitation, or facing the challenges of divorce, understanding the legal framework that governs relationships in England and Wales is vital. Family law provides the tools to protect your interests, resolve disputes and prioritise the well-being of children, ensuring that love is celebrated in a safe and secure environment.”
Contact us – Valentine’s Day and family law
If Valentine’s Day has prompted questions about your relationship and its legal implications, consider seeking advice from a family law solicitor such as Sinclair Law.
Whether it’s a pre-nuptial agreement, cohabitation rights or post-separation parenting, professional guidance can help you make informed decisions about your future.
Contact us for a free initial 30-minute consultation at either our Bramhall or Wilmslow office.
Valentine’s Day and Family Law