How is property divided when a long relationship ends?

Under the Property (Relationships) Act 1976, relationship property is generally divided equally when a relationship of three years or more ends, and this applies to married couples, civil union partners and de facto partners. Relationship property includes the family home, family chattels, and other property acquired during the relationship, and, in some cases, the increase in value of separate property. Separate property, such as gifts, inheritances or assets owned before the relationship, is usually excluded unless it has been mixed with relationship property. The court can depart from equal sharing in cases of extraordinary circumstances, and for relationships shorter than three years, the court looks at contributions. The Act also allows for adjustments where there is a significant economic disparity. Independent legal advice is essential, and agreements can be recorded formally.