Some people hate complexity in their lives and will do everything that they can to avoid it. If they were single in this situation and looking for a partner, then they may be particularly happy to have met somebody who shares the same sentiment. Together, they picture a great life together in this type of harmony and opt to move in with each other while maintaining their independent identities. Surely, this will make everything a lot easier in the long run, and if it doesn't work out, they can just go their own separate ways. However, time has an effect on everything, and external pressures can sometimes cause a change of heart. Consequently, it is important to understand that this type of informal relationship can have its consequences in the event of a breakdown.

Life Changes

Months or years into the future, one of the individuals in the union has decided that they want to move on, and they have a lot of other pressures in their life. They may have financial difficulties and need to focus carefully on the future, so they may expect their former partner to contribute. After all, this person was essentially the breadwinner in the household, and they have become used to that way of life. Now, even though the relationship was intended to be completely informal and without any "rules" as such, consequences nevertheless ensue.

De Facto

In legal terms, this is known as a "de facto" relationship, which is regarded as formal to all intents and purposes. One party may well be able to stake a claim for ongoing support, as unfair as that may have seemed on day one.

Special Factors

Still, the law courts will take many factors into account and their answers may not be cut and dried. They will want to know whether they were having sexual relations, if they were actually living together and how long this had been going on. They will look at financial interdependence and determine whether one was, indeed, totally reliant on the other. If it appears that they had made some significant decisions together with a view to living a joint life indefinitely, then this may well be a deciding factor.

Building a Case

Remember, this is not a one-sided conversation, and the court will definitely hear any arguments put forward by the plaintiff. They will need to gather as much evidence as possible to support their claim if they are to avoid a ruling against them.

Expert Support

There are many technicalities involved here, and these may not be obvious to the average person. It's crucial, therefore, to retain the services of a competent lawyer, especially as there is so much at stake.

For more information, reach out to a family law firm.