Supreme Court decison in Jones v Kernott

The Supreme Court handed down judgement in the case of Jones v Kernott on 9th November 2011.

The case relates to the division of ownership of a property owned by an unmarried couple.  The Court's decision makes clear how important it is to agree and record the basis of ownership of a property either when the property is purchased or when there is a change in the circumstances of the owners.

In the Jones v Kernott case the couple separated and the person remaining in the property continued to pay the household expenses on the property when her partner left the property.  The Court inferred what it believed to be the parties' intentions at the point when one left the home.  If the couple had an agreement about ownership the costs involved in a matter passing through the Courts could have been avoided.

If you would like advice on a Cohabitation Agreement please contact:

Joanna Toloczko on 01708 784044 or at joannatoloczko@mplaw.co.uk

For advice on Declarations of Trust in relation to jointly owned property please contact :

Jeremy Davies on 01708 784081 or at jeremydavies@mplaw.co.uk



Cameron Emslie on 01708 784062 or at cameronemslie@mplaw.co.uk


Helen Beach on 01708 784055 or at helenbeach@mplaw.co.uk