Since 2002, when there was a major overhaul of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976.
Couples in a relationship may seek legal advice, even early in their relationship, to establish how their property will be shared in the event of separation or death.
It is increasingly common for clients in a relationship to enter into an agreement determining the manner in which property is to be divided. Such agreements are often called ‘pre-nups’ or ‘property relationship sharing agreements’.
The Act requires that each party must have legal advice because once the agreement is signed, the agreement determines how property will be shared between the couple in the event of a separation or if one party to the agreement dies.