Research on cohabitation provisions of the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006

A team from the Universities of Edinburgh and Cambridge is currently conducting research on legal practitioners' perspectives on the cohabitation provisions of the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006.

The one year research project, funded by the Nuffield Foundation, is examining the functioning of the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006.

It is the first empirical study of the Act and aims to understand the operation of the cohabitation provisions. The study draws on two data sources: online/ postal questionnaires and follow-up, in-depth telephone interviews.

The researchers have invited hundreds of Scottish family lawyers to complete a questionnaire, drawing their details from the Family Law Association and the Law Society of Scotland. The researchers expect the findings to be of use to the Scottish Government as aspects of the 2006 Act are already under review; the research may also inform ongoing debates in England and Wales about law reform in this area.

For further information visit the Centre for Research on Families and Relationships website.