Common Law Marriage – The Myth Are you in a living with your partner but remain unmarried? You may think you are in a ‘Common Law Marriage,’ but in fact, no such thing exists. Unmarried couples do not have the same legal obligations to one another as their married counterparts. Unfortunately, this means that if a separation occurs, a multitude of issues can arise in relation to property and division of finances. Unless assets are held jointly, unmarried couples have limited recourse to an ex-partner’s property, financial assets, or belongings, pension or financial support regardless of the duration of the relationship. If living together with a joint mortgage it is important to recognise that as both parties are named jointly on the mortgage, regardless of who remains living in the property, both are jointly and independently liable for the mortgage payments. This often leaves one partner in a very vulnerable position where they cannot afford to pay the full mortgage and the other refuses to contribute. If you have a joint mortgage and the relationship breaks down, it is often the case that one partner will make financial enquiries to secure a mortgage in their sole name. This is not always possible though depending on financial circumstances. In some cases, it may be possible to make a financial claim against an ex-partner, even if you weren’t married but this will all depend on the circumstances. The legal consequences of living with your partner can be widespread but unfortunately cohabiting couples rarely seek legal advice until the relationship breaks down. This can leave many couples in a stressful and vulnerable situation. You should therefore seek legal advice at an early stage if you are entering into a cohabitation relationship. At this early stage, our office can assist you in drafting a written Cohabitation Agreement on what is to happen in the event of subsequent separation and in so far as it affects property. At Donnelly & Kinder we can provide specialist tailored advice in this particular area of law and provide guidance in terms of dispute resolution, division of assets and all aspects of child law for married and unmarried couples alike. Please contact info@donnellykinder.com or phone us at 02890 244 999 for more information.

Why Complex Personal Injury Cases Require Specialist Expertise Personal injury law is constantly evolving. In 2025, complex personal injury claims involving serious injuries, industrial diseases, and medical negligence are becoming more common as low-value claims decline. If you or a loved one is facing a complex injury claim, understanding why specialist legal expertise matters can help you secure the best outcome. What Are Complex Personal Injury Cases? Complex PI cases often include: Catastrophic injuries such as brain or spinal damage Industrial disease claims (e.g., asbestosis, mesothelioma) Medical negligence and delayed diagnosis cases Claims requiring expert medical evidence Situations with multiple defendants or complex liability These claims usually involve high-value compensation and require in-depth legal and medical knowledge. Why Choose a Specialist Personal Injury Solicitor? 1. Expert Medical Knowledge and Case Preparation Specialist solicitors collaborate with medical experts to interpret clinical evidence and build strong cases that support maximum compensation. 2. Skilled Case Management Handling complex claims demands meticulous organization, coordination of evidence, and meeting strict legal deadlines. 3. Compassionate Client Support Serious injuries often cause emotional and financial hardship. Specialist solicitors provide tailored advice and ongoing support throughout your claim. 4. Maximising Your Compensation From long-term care costs to lost earnings and rehabilitation, experienced solicitors ensure you receive comprehensive damages. 5. Navigating Legal and Procedural Complexities Experienced teams are adept at managing negotiations, court proceedings, and interactions with multiple insurers or defendants. Real-Life Case Studies Brain Injury and Spinal fractures Claim Following a severe workplace accident, we secured a significant settlement for our client who also had a claim for future wage loss, loss of pension and prejudice on the labour market. Industrial Disease: Asbestosis We successfully represented a client exposed to asbestos at work, tracing liability across several companies to obtain substantial compensation. Accident at work – pelvis and groin injuries The contractor denied he owed any duty to the subcontractor who fell from makeshift scaffolding suffering a ruptured urethra and injuries to his perineum, lower abdomen and back. We secured a six figure sum for him without the need for a court hearing. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How long do complex personal injury claims take? These cases can take months to years due to extensive medical assessments and legal processes. Will my case go to court? Most cases settle outside of court, but your solicitor will prepare to litigate if needed. How is compensation calculated? Compensation considers medical expenses, lost earnings, care needs, pain and suffering, and future financial losses. Contact Donnelly & Kinder for Expert Personal Injury Advice If you’re dealing with a complex personal injury claim, you need a solicitor with specialist knowledge and experience. At Donnelly & Kinder, we combine legal expertise with compassionate client care to secure the best results. Call or email us today for a free, confidential consultation