Legal Recognition of Live-in Relationships
Bhawna Rangotha & Dr. Mahasweta Sengupta
DOI:
Abstract
The legal status of cohabitation without formal marriage, or live-in partnerships, varies greatly around the world due to a complex interaction of societal, legal, and cultural factors. The legal systems governing cohabitation in five different countries—the US, India, Sweden, France, and Japan—are compared in this article. It looks at how societal attitudes, legal precedents, and statutes affect cohabiting partners’ rights and recognition. While nations like India and Japan face social stigmas and little legal acknowledgment, progressive countries like Sweden and France provide extensive legal rights. In addition to differences based on cultural norms and legal traditions, the study identifies common issues like gender equality, child welfare, and implementation challenges. The paper emphasizes the necessity of harmonized legal frameworks that take into account modern relationship dynamics by examining case law, legislative requirements, and Law Commission proposals. The study ends with practical suggestions, such as international cooperation to resolve transnational legal disputes, gender-sensitive changes, and public awareness initiatives. By bridging the gap between changing cultural values and established legal frameworks, these ideas hope to promote equity and inclusivity in family law around the world.