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Editor: Nancy McRoberts Parham
Profession: Tampa Family Law Attorney

Category: Divorce Law

You know the old saying "Only in America"? Well, here's an interesting story that comes not from here in the states, but from Scotland. Apparently, Scottish lawmakers have passed a new family law which enables unmarried couples to sue each other if the realtionship goes south.

According to Scotsman.com

The changes are part of the Family Law (Scotland) Act, which came into force last month. Before 4 May, a person could live with a partner for many years and contribute equally to the household expenses but walk away with nothing at the end of the union.

The new act will presume equal ownership of household goods, mirroring the situation with married couples. Crucially, if the cohabitant dies without a will, the survivor will be entitled to claim a share of the estate.

Attorneys expect a flood of lawsuits as a result of the new law.