Call for ban of "common-law marriage" phrase
Legal advice group says too many people believe "common-law" husbands and wives have rights of married couples
A legal advice group has begun a campaign to get rid of the phrase "common-law marriage" from official English.
The group - Living Together - says the phrase has no legal standing anywhere in the UK, including Scotland. A survey carried out by the organisation showed that 67 per cent of people believed that after living together for a while, a couple automatically became "common-law husband and wife", assuming that each partner had the same rights as couples who are married.
Living Together said this could lead to serious financial loss and emotional distress, and that people did not realise there were steps they needed to take to protect themselves.
Cohabiting couples will have certain rights to property and financial support if the proposed changes set out in the Family Law (Scotland) Bill are introduced. Stage 1 of the bill is due to be completed by 16 September 2005.
Current News05.09.08 PM changes tack on tax-raising powersAllowing Scottish Parliament more accountability would strengthen the UK, says Brown 05.09.08 Summary justice reform success, claims AngioliniLord Advocate's letter says figures to date indicate new system working 04.09.08 Advocates in Aberdeen launch new websiteInternet presence aimed at increasing awareness of Society of Advocates in the north east 04.09.08 Legal profession, local income tax top bill listScottish Government unveils legislative programme for 2008-09 04.09.08 Step up to associate for Fife lawyerSue Arrowsmith promoted at Murray Donald Drummond Cook LLP 04.09.08 Prosecution inspectorate publishes annual reportReview pending of new fiscal fine system 03.09.08 Society welcomes Legal Profession BillHopes that bill will provide for alternative business structures for law firms 03.09.08 'No proof that plaques harmful': insurance lawyersIndustry's legal team argue against proposed law extending compensation 03.09.08 Commissioner orders release of tender informationCouncil not justified in claim that Street Outreach documents must be kept secret 02.09.08 Stamp duty break for lower value properties12-month threshold of £175,000 among government moves to buck up housing market 01.09.08 Government publishes sentencing proposalsJudges and sheriffs would need to reveal reasons for departing from guidelines 01.09.08 Revenue reminds of new tax return date31 October now deadline for paper returns 01.09.08 Blackadders' review results in 44 job lossesTwo branches also close as firm consolidates to combat property market troubles 01.09.08 Area procurator fiscal appointment for CentralMichelle Macleod takes on new role 01.09.08 Partner catch for Ledingham ChalmersNeil Anderson appointed, while Marysia Lewis takes up floating sheriff appointment |