Settling down with your partner is an exciting step, but it is important to make sure you understand your relationship’s legal status.

These pages explain the legal differences between living together, getting married and entering a civil partnership. You can also find out how to get married or register your civil partnership.

If you buy a home with another person, you need to decide how you will share ownership of the property. This is important whether you want to buy with your spouse, partner, a family member or a friend. (Content applies to England only.)