Law of Property Act 1925: Primary legislation governing property ownership and rights, particularly relevant for joint ownership of property in England and Wales
Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 (TOLATA): Legislation dealing with disputes about property ownership between cohabitants and relevant for beneficial interests in property
Children Act 1989: Key legislation covering arrangements for children and financial provision if the couple has or plans to have children
Family Law Act 1996: Legislation covering occupation rights and protection from domestic violence, particularly Part IV
Stack v Dowden [2007] UKHL 17: Leading case law establishing principles for determining beneficial interests in property between unmarried couples
Jones v Kernott [2011] UKSC 53: Supreme Court case providing further clarification on property rights between unmarried couples
Contract Law Principles: The agreement must follow general contractual principles as it will be treated as a contract under common law, unlike married couples' prenuptial agreements
Independent Legal Advice: Both parties should receive independent legal advice to strengthen the enforceability of the agreement
Statutory Rights Override: The agreement cannot override certain statutory rights, particularly those relating to children
Essential Provisions: The agreement must include key provisions covering property ownership, financial arrangements, living expenses, separation arrangements, and dispute resolution mechanisms
