Family Disputes
Common types of Family Disputes
Family Disputes: Cohabitation, Financial Claims and Family Business Issues
Family relationships can be among the strongest we experience — but when disputes arise, they can also be among the most difficult and emotionally charged. Whether you are dealing with a disagreement over property, financial arrangements, or a family-run business, these issues can cause lasting damage without careful handling.
Our aim is to offer pragmatic advice to help you resolve family disputes swiftly and fairly, with a strong focus on preserving important relationships wherever possible
Cohabitation Disputes
When unmarried couples live together, they often assume they have the same rights as married couples — but legally, that is not the case. Disputes can arise when a relationship breaks down or when one party dies without a Will, particularly over:
- Ownership of the home
- Contributions to mortgage or household costs
- Entitlements to savings, investments, or pensions
- Rights to remain living in the property
These disputes can be complex, especially where there is no formal cohabitation agreement or clear legal ownership. We can help you navigate claims relating to property and financial contributions, often using trust law principles such as “constructive trust” or “proprietary estoppel.”
Financial Claims within Families
Financial arrangements within families are often made informally, based on trust. Unfortunately, disputes can arise over:
- Loans versus gifts between family members
- Contributions to property purchases (for example, where parents help children buy a home)
- Promises of financial support or inheritance that are later withdrawn
- Disputes over jointly owned assets
We have experience in helping clients deal with these complex and sensitive financial disagreements. Our litigation solicitors provide practical advice, whether you are seeking to enforce your financial interest or defend a claim made against you
Family Business Disputes
Many family businesses are built on generations of hard work, but disagreements can threaten their survival. Common issues include:
- Disputes over ownership shares
- Succession planning disagreements
- Claims of unfair treatment between siblings or relatives involved in the business
- Disagreements over management decisions or profit distribution
Family dynamics can make these disputes particularly challenging. Our approach is to combine commercial insight with an understanding of family relationships, helping you resolve disputes pragmatically to protect the business — and the family ties — wherever possible.
How We Can Help
We offer a sensitive but firm approach, listening carefully to your concerns and objects. We offer clear advice from the outset on your legal position and options. We will explore negotiation and mediation but will provide strong representation if court is necessary.
Our aim to find solutions that preserve important family relationships, helping you reach a fair and lasting resolution.
Yes, you may have a claim, particularly if you contributed to the purchase price, mortgage payments, or renovations of a property owned by your partner. Claims are often made under trust law principles such as “constructive trust” or “proprietary estoppel.” We can assess your circumstances and advise you on your potential claim
Verbal agreements can be enforceable, but they are much harder to prove. If there is a dispute about whether money was a gift or a loan, the courts will look at evidence such as bank statements, messages, and the conduct of the parties. We can help you gather the evidence needed to support your position.
A solicitor can help clarify the legal rights and obligations of each family member, negotiate solutions, and, where necessary, bring or defend court proceedings. Early legal advice is crucial in family business disputes to protect the business, prevent escalation, and achieve a workable outcome for all involved
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