News / Law

New law firm with special focus launches

By Charlie Watts  Monday Jul 17, 2023

A new legal practice specialising in advising non-married couples has opened in Bristol.

Roskilly & Mills, which will advise on separation, wills and inheritance disputes, has been launched by Emily Roskilly and Lucia Mills.

The firm says it will take a “holistic, transparent and empathetic approach” to providing specialist advice to cohabiting couples pre- and post-separation.

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Emily said: “Common law marriage is a myth. In the legal world there is no such thing. The truth is that married couples have greater rights than unmarried ones, and unmarried couples and those who co-own property may need specialist legal advice.

“Contrary to popular belief, when there is a property dispute, this area of law is civil law and not family law – the two specialisms are governed by different courts with different rules.

“When cohabiting couples separate, it is often a huge shock because one of them may end up with nothing – and huge costs.”

Lucia added: “There have been calls to reform the law in this area. However, this is currently not being prioritised.

“We believe the law is out of step with modern-day society and there should be increased awareness for all unmarried couples.”

Emily trained and worked for Veale Wasbrough Vizards (now VWV) in its Bristol head office for almost 13 years.

While Lucia started her legal career in 2007 and qualified as a family solicitor two years later, spending nearly 14 years at Bristol firm Wards.

Roskilly & Mills will help cohabiting couples with finances, childcare, divorce coaches and well-being, alongside will and inheritance disputes.

Main photo: Roskilly & Mills

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