In a country like India, where traditions and culture precede most things, accepting the concept of live-in relationships has taken long. However, times have changed, and ideas that were unheard of until recently are common today. Nowadays, many youngsters choose to explore living in with their partners before signing up (or not) for a legal commitment. But have you ever wondered what the inheritance and succession laws are for live-in partners in India? God forbid, if one of the partners happens to pass away, will the other partner inherit his/her property? Let us dig a little deep…
There are no legal statutes regarding the validity of live-in relationships in India. However, multiple cases heard in different courts across the country over the years have brought it to the purview of the law. The rulings from these cases, including one by the Supreme Court, have established that such relationships are not illegal and children born to live-in couples would be legitimate. They are legally eligible to inherit their parents’ self-acquired assets. But when it comes to the partners, is it equally easy?
As we all know, you can nominate anyone you wish to give away your assets in your will. If you want to add your live-in partner’s name to it, he/she can legally claim the property through a succession certificate. However, if one of the live-in partners has an untimely demise without making a will, then things can get tricky for the other partner if other legal heirs refuse to give her anything. It may get even more difficult if the couple has had no estate-planning talks and the living partner is unaware of the deceased’s assets. In such a scenario, the partner can seek help from legal professionals to understand his/her position in terms of inheritance.
If you are in a live-in relationship and want to plan your succession, it would be best if you do it together. Let him/her know what all you possess and who you think should inherit them. You can also have a portfolio on EasyInherit and put all the information in one place so that your partner has a smoother run for succession. Any relationship, live-in or married, that’s nurtured with love is beautiful, and the memories should be cherished forever!
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