This article has been written by Ms. Manya Purwar, a 4th year student of Lloyd Law College, Gr. Noida. 

 

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the intricate legal considerations surrounding maintenance and alimony in the context of live-in relationships, exploring a dynamic landscape where evolving societal norms intersect with traditional legal frameworks. The narrative unfolds through a comprehensive examination of historical perspectives, legal precedents, jurisdictional variations, and emerging trends, aiming to illuminate the complexities faced by individuals navigating the ambiguous terrain of live-in partnerships. As the legal tapestry adapts to the kaleidoscope of modern relationships, this article serves as a guide, inviting further dialogue on the recognition, regulation, and equitable treatment of couples who choose the path of cohabitation. The conclusion advocates for a nuanced and context-specific approach, emphasizing the need for ongoing legal reform to ensure that individuals in live-in relationships find clarity, fairness, and justice in a rapidly evolving legal landscape.

INTRODUCTION

In the tapestry of contemporary society, the fabric of relationships is woven with threads of diversity and evolving dynamics. As cultural norms transform and societal structures adapt, one paradigm shift that has garnered significant attention is the increasing prevalence and acceptance of live-in relationships. These unions, characterized by unmarried couples cohabiting and sharing their lives without the formality of marriage, challenge traditional notions of family and partnership. Amidst this societal transformation, legal frameworks grapple with the complexities of defining and regulating the rights and responsibilities of partners involved in live-in relationships.

In the absence of a formal marital contract, the legal terrain surrounding live-in relationships remains nebulous, leaving questions about financial support, or the lack thereof, shrouded in ambiguity. Among the myriad concerns, the issue of maintenance and alimony takes centre stage—a legal dance on a terrain where the steps are not clearly defined. This article embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted legal considerations entwined with maintenance and alimony in live-in relationships, dissecting the historical, jurisdictional, and legislative layers that shape the current legal landscape.

UNDERSTANDING LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIPS: DEFINITION AND RECOGNITION

In the ever-evolving landscape of modern relationships, live-in partnerships have emerged as a distinct form of companionship, challenging traditional societal norms and legal paradigms. This section delves into the definition and recognition of live-in relationships, exploring the nuances that surround these unions and the varying degrees of acknowledgment they receive within legal frameworks.

• Definition of Live-in Relationships: Live-in relationships, also known as cohabitation or domestic partnerships, refer to the arrangement where unmarried couples choose to live together in a manner that mirrors the intimacy and shared responsibilities commonly associated with traditional marriages. Unlike marital unions, live-in relationships lack the formalities of a legal marriage contract, providing individuals with an alternative to conventional matrimony while maintaining an intimate and committed connection.

The defining characteristics of live-in relationships encompass shared living spaces, financial interdependence, and a commitment to a shared life without the legal obligations inherent in marriage. It is essential to recognize that the nature and understanding of live-in relationships can vary widely among individuals and cultures, reflecting the diversity of modern relationship dynamics.

• Legal Recognition of Live-in Relationships: The legal recognition of live-in relationships is a complex and evolving aspect, with acknowledgment varying across jurisdictions. Some legal systems explicitly recognize and provide rights to individuals in live-in relationships, treating them as akin to married couples in certain respects. In contrast, other jurisdictions may not have clear legal provisions addressing the rights and obligations of partners in such unions.

In some regions, courts and legislative bodies have recognized live-in relationships as a form of domestic partnership, affording certain legal rights and protections to individuals in these unions. However, the degree of recognition often depends on the specific legal and cultural context of each jurisdiction.

The absence of a standardized legal framework for live-in relationships can create challenges when it comes to defining and enforcing the rights of the parties involved. In many cases, the legal recognition of these relationships is still an evolving area, and courts may rely on existing family law principles or statutory provisions designed for married couples when addressing issues related to live-in partnerships.

• Legal Considerations and Challenges: The evolving nature of live-in relationships poses challenges in terms of legal clarity and consistency. While societal acceptance of these partnerships has increased, legal systems are often slow to adapt, leading to ambiguity in matters such as property rights, financial responsibilities, and the enforcement of legal obligations. 

Navigating issues related to child custody, inheritance, and healthcare benefits in the absence of a formal marriage contract can be particularly challenging for individuals in live-in relationships. Legal recognition remains a crucial aspect for ensuring that the rights and responsibilities of partners are appropriately addressed, protecting individuals from potential vulnerabilities.

Defining and recognizing live-in relationships involves navigating a complex interplay of societal attitudes, cultural norms, and legal frameworks. As these partnerships continue to gain acceptance, there is a growing need for legal systems to adapt and provide clear guidelines that address the unique dynamics of live-in relationships, ensuring equitable treatment and protection for individuals within these unions.

RIGHTS IN LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIP

The rights of individuals in live-in relationships, also known as cohabitation or domestic partnerships, can vary widely depending on the jurisdiction and the specific legal frameworks in place. While the legal recognition and rights afforded to partners in live-in relationships continue to evolve, several common aspects are often considered:

Property Rights

• Acquisition of Property: In some jurisdictions, the duration of the live-in relationship may influence the property rights of partners. If one partner significantly contributes to the acquisition of property during the relationship, they may have a claim to a share of that property.
• Joint Ownership: Property acquired jointly during the relationship may be subject to joint ownership or shared rights, depending on the jurisdiction and the nature of the contributions made by each partner.

Financial Rights and Responsibilities

• Financial Contributions: The financial contributions of each partner during the course of the relationship may be considered when determining financial rights and responsibilities. This includes contributions to living expenses, shared bills, and other financial commitments.
• Support Obligations: In some jurisdictions, partners in live-in relationships may have support obligations to each other, particularly if there is economic disparity between them. This can be a factor in determining financial responsibilities, especially in the event of a separation.

Child Custody and Support

• Child Custody: If the live-in relationship involves children, the rights and responsibilities regarding child custody may be addressed. The best interests of the child are typically prioritized, and custody arrangements may be determined based on factors such as stability, parental involvement, and the child’s well-being.
• Child Support: Legal systems often address the issue of child support for the custodial parent. The non-custodial partner may be obligated to provide financial support to ensure the child’s needs are met.

Healthcare and Medical Decision-Making

• Healthcare Decision-Making: In some jurisdictions, partners in live-in relationships may have rights related to healthcare decision-making for each other. This includes the ability to make medical decisions in the event of illness or incapacity.
• Access to Information: Partners may have the right to access each other’s medical information and records, depending on privacy laws and the legal recognition of the relationship.

End-of-Life Decision-Making: Partners may have the right to make end-of-life decisions for each other through the use of advance directives, such as living wills or medical powers of attorney. However, the legal recognition of these documents can vary.

Protection Against Domestic Violence: Many jurisdictions extend legal protections against domestic violence to individuals in live-in relationships. This includes the ability to obtain restraining orders or seek legal remedies in cases of abuse.

Recognition of Relationship Status: Some jurisdictions explicitly recognize live-in relationships as a form of domestic partnership, affording certain legal rights and protections to the partners. However, this recognition is not universal, and the legal status of such relationships can vary widely.

It’s crucial for individuals in live-in relationships to be aware of the legal landscape in their specific jurisdiction, as the rights and protections can significantly differ. Seeking legal advice and, where applicable, drafting cohabitation agreements can help clarify rights and responsibilities, providing a degree of legal certainty for partners in live-in relationships.

MAINTENANCE: HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Maintenance, the financial support provided by one partner to another, has a historical trajectory reflecting societal and legal changes:

• Ancient Foundations: Maintenance finds roots in ancient societies where legal codes, like the Code of Hammurabi, recognized the obligation to financially support divorced or widowed individuals.

• Medieval and Ecclesiastical Influence: During the Middle Ages, maintenance became associated with ecclesiastical courts overseeing marital disputes, ensuring financial support for disadvantaged spouses.

• Early Modern Period: In the early modern period, maintenance evolved with changing economic roles within marriages, often linked to compensating the economically dependent spouse.

• 20th Century Transformations: The 20th century witnessed shifts, especially with the adoption of no-fault divorce laws. Maintenance focused more on economic considerations, aiming for fairness irrespective of fault.

• Contemporary Landscape: Today, maintenance laws take a gender-neutral approach, considering factors like the duration of the relationship, financial contributions, and the standard of living during the partnership.

Maintenance’s historical evolution reflects changing attitudes toward marriage, economic roles, and the ongoing pursuit of equitable solutions in family law.

ALIMONY: HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

Alimony, a financial support obligation often associated with divorce, has a rich historical background:

• Ancient Roots: Alimony traces its origins to ancient civilizations, where early legal codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi, included provisions for the financial support of divorced or widowed individuals.

• Medieval Ecclesiastical Influence: During the Middle Ages in Europe, alimony became intertwined with ecclesiastical courts’ oversight of marital disputes. The church played a role in ensuring financial support for disadvantaged spouses.

• Early Modern Period: In the early modern period, alimony evolved alongside changing economic roles within marriages. The concept was linked to the idea of compensating the economically dependent spouse, particularly as divorce became more accessible.

• 20th Century Shifts: The 20th century witnessed significant changes as no-fault divorce laws emerged. Alimony evolved to focus more on economic considerations and the financial needs of both spouses, irrespective of fault in marital breakdowns.

• Contemporary Perspective: Today, alimony laws are characterized by a more gender-neutral approach. Courts consider factors such as the duration of the marriage, financial contributions of each party, and the standard of living during the relationship when determining alimony awards.

Alimony’s historical journey reflects broader societal shifts, moving from ecclesiastical oversight to an evolving legal framework that aims for fairness and economic equity in the aftermath of marital dissolution.

FACTORS INFLUENCING MAINTENANCE AND ALIMONY DETERMINATIONS

Maintenance determinations and alimony determinations, also known as spousal support, can be influenced by a range of factors in live-in relationships. While the specifics can vary based on jurisdiction and individual circumstances, the following are common factors that often play a crucial role in maintenance and alimony determinations: 

• Duration of the Cohabitation: The length of the live-in relationship is a key factor. Longer periods of cohabitation may be more likely to trigger considerations for financial support, as the partners are presumed to have developed a significant degree of financial interdependence.

• Financial Contributions: Courts may assess the financial contributions of each partner during the live-in relationship. This includes both monetary contributions and non-monetary contributions, such as homemaking or supporting the career of the other partner.

• Economic Disparity: The financial disparity between the partners post-separation is a crucial consideration. If one partner has a significantly higher income or greater assets than the other, this imbalance may influence maintenance and alimony determinations.

• Standard of Living During the Relationship: Maintaining the standard of living established during the live-in relationship is a factor. Courts may consider it to help the financially disadvantaged partner sustain a lifestyle similar to that enjoyed during cohabitation.

• Child Custody and Support: If the live-in relationship involves children, child custody and support arrangements can intersect with alimony and maintenance determinations. The financial responsibilities associated with raising children may impact the overall financial support awarded.

• Express or Implied Promise of Support: Any express or implied promises of financial support made between the partners during the live-in relationship may be considered. Courts may assess the existence of an understanding or agreement regarding support.

• Health and Age of the Parties: The health and age of both partners may be relevant. Consideration may be given to whether health issues impact employability and the ability to achieve financial independence.

• Ability to Pay: The financial capacity of the partner expected to provide support is crucial. Courts may consider their ability to meet the financial obligations while maintaining their own standard of living.

• Cohabitation Agreements or Written Understandings: Similar to express agreements, written understandings or cohabitation agreements that outline financial arrangements can play a significant role in alimony determinations.

• Other Relevant Circumstances: Courts have the discretion to consider other relevant circumstances that might impact the financial dynamics of the relationship. This can include any unique factors that the court deems pertinent to the specific case.

COHABITATION AGREEMENT IN LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIP

A cohabitation agreement in a live-in relationship is a legal document that outlines the rights and responsibilities of each partner in the event of a separation or other defined circumstances. While the specifics may vary based on the couple’s preferences and the legal requirements of their jurisdiction, here are common elements typically included in a cohabitation agreement:

1. Identification of Parties:
   • The agreement should begin by clearly identifying the parties involved, including their full legal names and any other relevant identifying information.
2. Commencement Date:
   • Specify the date on which the cohabitation agreement comes into effect. This is usually the date when the partners begin living together.
3. Statement of Intent:
   • Include a statement of intent, outlining the purpose of the agreement. This may include the desire to establish financial and property-related arrangements and clarify the expectations of both parties.
4. Financial Arrangements:
   • Clearly define how financial matters will be handled during the cohabitation and in the event of a separation. This may include details about joint or separate bank accounts, contributions to living expenses, and any arrangements for financial support or alimony.
5. Property Ownership and Division:
   • Specify how property acquired during the relationship will be owned and divided in case of a separation. This may include real estate, vehicles, investments, and other assets.
6. Debt Responsibility:
   • Clearly outline how debts incurred during the relationship will be handled. Specify which partner is responsible for each debt and how repayment will be managed.
7. Spousal Support (Alimony):
   • If applicable, include provisions for spousal support or alimony. Outline the criteria for determining the need for support, the amount, and the duration. This section may also address circumstances under which support obligations may be modified or terminated.
8. Child Custody and Support:
   • If the couple has children or plans to have children, address arrangements for child custody, visitation rights, and child support. This section may also include provisions for the children’s education, healthcare, and other related expenses.
9. Dispute Resolution Mechanism:
   • Include a mechanism for resolving disputes that may arise between the partners. This could involve mediation, arbitration, or another agreed-upon method to avoid legal proceedings.
10. Termination of Agreement:
    • Outline the conditions under which the cohabitation agreement can be terminated. This may include mutual consent, the end of the cohabitation, or other specified circumstances.
11. Governing Law:
    • Specify the governing law under which the cohabitation agreement will be interpreted and enforced. This is particularly important if the partners live in or move to a jurisdiction with different legal standards.
12. Amendment Clause:
    • Include a provision allowing the partners to amend the agreement if circumstances change. This ensures that the agreement remains relevant and effective over time.
13. Full Disclosure Clause:
    • Require both partners to make full and honest financial disclosure. This helps ensure that both parties have a comprehensive understanding of each other’s financial situations.
14. Independent Legal Advice:
    • Encourage or require each partner to seek independent legal advice before signing the agreement. This helps ensure that both parties fully understand the implications of the agreement.
15. Execution and Notarization:
    • Clearly outline the process for executing the agreement, including any witnessing or notarization requirements to enhance its legal validity.

It’s crucial for both partners to fully understand and willingly agree to the terms of the cohabitation agreement. Seeking legal advice when drafting and reviewing the agreement is highly recommended to ensure that it meets legal standards and effectively addresses the specific needs and circumstances of the couple.

IMPORTANCE OF AGREEMENTS FOR MAINTENANCE AND ALIMONY

The importance of agreements, particularly cohabitation agreements, in the context of maintenance and alimony for live-in relationships cannot be overstated. These agreements serve as legally binding documents that outline the financial terms and expectations between partners in the event of a separation. Here are several reasons highlighting the significance of such agreements:

1. Clarity and Certainty:
   • Cohabitation agreements provide clarity and certainty regarding financial arrangements. They explicitly outline the rights and responsibilities of each partner, reducing ambiguity and the potential for disputes in the future.
2. Protection of Individual Rights:
   • Agreements allow individuals to protect their rights and interests. Partners can define the terms of financial support, property division, and other relevant matters, ensuring that both parties are on the same page about their obligations.
3. Tailored to Specific Circumstances:
   • Every relationship is unique, and cohabitation agreements allow couples to customize the terms based on their specific circumstances. This tailoring ensures that the agreement reflects the intentions and expectations of the partners.
4. Financial Planning:
   • Cohabitation agreements enable couples to engage in financial planning. They can address issues such as spousal support, the division of shared expenses, and the handling of joint assets. This proactive approach helps prevent financial surprises and disagreements.
5. Avoidance of Legal Battles:
   • In the absence of a cohabitation agreement, disputes over maintenance and alimony can lead to lengthy and costly legal battles. Having a clear and legally binding agreement in place can help avoid protracted court proceedings and mitigate the emotional toll on both parties.
6. Protection of Assets:
   • Agreements provide a mechanism for protecting individual assets. Partners can define which assets are joint and which remain separate, offering a level of protection in the event of a separation.
7. Support for Legal Enforceability:
   • A well-drafted cohabitation agreement is more likely to be legally enforceable. Courts are generally more inclined to uphold agreements that are fair, transparent, and entered into voluntarily by both parties.
8. Flexibility and Adaptability:
   • Cohabitation agreements can be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. They can include provisions for periodic reviews or adjustments based on factors such as changes in income, employment, or the introduction of children into the relationship.
9. Consideration of Future Contingencies:
   • Agreements can anticipate future contingencies. This includes potential scenarios such as one partner becoming financially dependent, changes in employment status, or the desire to modify support arrangements based on agreed-upon criteria.
10. Encouragement of Open Communication:
    • The process of creating a cohabitation agreement encourages open communication between partners. Discussing financial matters and expectations can strengthen the understanding of each other’s perspectives and foster a more transparent relationship.
11. Recognition of Legal Variations:
    • Since legal recognition and enforcement of rights in live-in relationships can vary, especially across jurisdictions, having a cohabitation agreement allows couples to create a framework that aligns with their needs and preferences, irrespective of legal standards.

In summary, cohabitation agreements play a crucial role in the context of maintenance and alimony for live-in relationships. They provide a structured and legally binding framework that promotes clarity, fairness, and the protection of the rights and interests of both partners. Consulting with legal professionals to draft a comprehensive and enforceable cohabitation agreement is a proactive step toward safeguarding the financial aspects of a live-in partnership.

LEGISLATIVE RESPONSES IN LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIP

Legislative responses to live-in relationships vary widely across jurisdictions, reflecting diverse cultural, social, and legal perspectives. As societal structures evolve, lawmakers grapple with the need to adapt legal frameworks to accommodate the rights and responsibilities of individuals in live-in partnerships. Below are several legislative responses and trends observed in addressing live-in relationships:

1. Recognition of Rights:
   • Some jurisdictions have moved towards recognizing legal rights for individuals in live-in relationships. This recognition may extend to property rights, financial support, and even custody arrangements for children born within these partnerships.
2. Cohabitation Agreements:
   • Legislative responses often support the use of cohabitation agreements. These legally binding contracts allow couples to define their financial arrangements, property rights, and other aspects of their relationship, providing clarity and protection in the absence of formal marriage.
3. Palimony Laws:
   • In some places, there are specific laws addressing palimony, which is financial support or property rights that may be granted to a partner in a live-in relationship after a separation. These laws are intended to mirror aspects of alimony but are tailored to the context of unmarried couples.
4. No Common-Law Marriage Recognition:
   • Some jurisdictions explicitly state that they do not recognize common-law marriage. In these cases, couples may need to rely on specific legislative provisions or legal principles designed for unmarried partners.
5. Default Legal Protections:
   • In certain jurisdictions, default legal protections may be provided to individuals in live-in relationships, especially concerning property division and financial support. These protections might be triggered after a certain duration of cohabitation or the birth of children within the relationship.
6. Parental Rights and Responsibilities:
   • Legislative responses often address parental rights and responsibilities in live-in relationships, including child custody, visitation, and child support. The welfare of children born within such partnerships is a key consideration.
7. Duration-Based Protections:
   • Some jurisdictions provide legal protections based on the duration of the live-in relationship. For example, after a certain number of years of cohabitation, partners may gain legal rights similar to those of married couples.
8. Default Financial Arrangements:
   • Legislative frameworks may include default financial arrangements in the absence of a cohabitation agreement. These arrangements might be based on principles of fairness and equity, considering factors such as financial contributions and the duration of the relationship.
9. Public Policy Considerations:
   • Legislators often consider public policy implications when addressing live-in relationships. The goal is to strike a balance between recognizing the rights of individuals in these partnerships and maintaining legal stability and societal values.
10. Ongoing Evolution:
    • Legislative responses to live-in relationships are continually evolving. As societal attitudes change and the prevalence of non-marital partnerships increases, lawmakers may revisit and adapt legal frameworks to address emerging needs and challenges.

It’s crucial for individuals in live-in relationships to be aware of the legal landscape in their jurisdiction, as legislative responses can significantly impact their rights and obligations. Seeking legal advice and understanding the available legal mechanisms, such as cohabitation agreements, can help individuals navigate the complexities of legal recognition and protection in the context of live-in relationships.

LEGAL CHALLENGES AND CRITICISM IN LIVE-IN RELATIONSHIP 

Legal challenges and criticisms regarding maintenance and alimony in the context of live-in relationships often stem from the evolving nature of these partnerships and the legal systems struggling to keep pace with societal changes. Several challenges and criticisms have been raised, including:

1. Lack of Legal Clarity:
   • One of the primary challenges is the lack of clear legal frameworks for maintenance and alimony in live-in relationships. Many jurisdictions have not explicitly addressed the rights and obligations of partners in these relationships, leading to uncertainty and disputes.
2. Inconsistent Legal Recognition:
   • Legal recognition of live-in relationships varies widely globally and even within countries. In some jurisdictions, cohabitation may be recognized for certain legal purposes, while in others, it may not be acknowledged at all. This inconsistency poses challenges in determining the applicability of maintenance and alimony principles.
3. Traditional Legal Concepts:
   • Maintenance and alimony laws are often rooted in traditional concepts of marriage. Critics argue that applying these principles to live-in relationships may not adequately reflect the diverse nature of modern partnerships, potentially leading to unfair outcomes.
4. Challenges in Proving Economic Interdependence:
   • Establishing the economic interdependence necessary for maintenance claims can be challenging in live-in relationships. The absence of formal financial structures, such as joint bank accounts or shared property, may complicate the process of demonstrating financial dependence.
5. Societal Attitudes and Stigma:
   • Societal attitudes and stigma surrounding non-marital relationships can influence legal responses. Some argue that biases against live-in partnerships may result in judicial reluctance to extend maintenance and alimony rights, contributing to legal disparities.
6. Inadequate Legal Protections for Vulnerable Parties:
   • Critics highlight that the lack of legal protections may disproportionately affect vulnerable parties, particularly those who sacrifice career opportunities or financial independence for the relationship. Without clear legal provisions, they may face financial insecurity post-separation.
7. Complexity in Determining Relationship Duration:
   • Maintenance and alimony calculations often consider the duration of the relationship. However, determining the start and end dates of a live-in partnership may be more complex than in formal marriages, leading to challenges in applying this criterion.
8. Changing Nature of Relationships:
   • The dynamic and evolving nature of modern relationships, including serial cohabitation and the fluidity of partnerships, poses challenges to traditional legal structures. Critics argue that legal frameworks should adapt to recognize and protect the diverse forms of relationships.
9. Enforceability of Agreements:
   • While cohabitation agreements are recommended to provide clarity, their enforceability can be challenging. Agreements may face scrutiny, especially if there are allegations of coercion, lack of transparency, or if circumstances have significantly changed since the agreement was executed.
10. Cultural and Religious Perspectives:
    • Legal challenges in recognizing and enforcing maintenance and alimony rights in live-in relationships can also be influenced by cultural and religious perspectives. In some societies, non-marital partnerships may face resistance from traditional norms and values.

Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive review of family law frameworks, with an emphasis on adapting to the realities of contemporary relationships. Legal reforms, improved clarity in legislation, and increased awareness among legal professionals and the public are essential steps toward creating more equitable legal responses to maintenance and alimony in live-in relationships.

 

CONCLUSION

In the kaleidoscope of relationships, live-in unions emerge as a vibrant expression of the evolving nature of societal structures. As the contours of family dynamics reshape in response to changing norms, expectations, and lifestyles, legal frameworks are compelled to adapt, seeking to provide a coherent and equitable foundation for individuals engaged in live-in relationships. The journey through historical perspectives, legal precedents, jurisdictional variations, and emerging trends has sought to illuminate the path forward, navigating the intricate legal considerations surrounding maintenance and alimony in these unconventional unions.

As we stand at the intersection of tradition and modernity, the legal considerations surrounding maintenance and alimony in live-in relationships beckon us to contemplate not only the intricacies of the law but also the evolving nature of human connections. In this era of change, the legal landscape must evolve in tandem with societal shifts, ensuring that individuals in live-in relationships find themselves on solid legal ground as they navigate the intricate dance of partnership in the 21st century.

 

REFERENCES

This article was originally written by Gargi Sanjay Lad, https://www.brillopedia.net/post/legality-of-live-in-relationships-with-respect-to-section-125-of-crpc#:~:text=Under%20The%20Protection%20of%20Women,it%20doesn’t%20work%20out.

This article was originally written by Varsha, https://bnblegal.com/article/rights-of-a-woman-in-a-live-in-relationship-in-india-legal-status-and-landmark-judgments/

https://www.indiafilings.com/learn/live-in-relationships-in-india/

This article was originally written by Choudhary Laxmi Narayan, Mridul Deepanshu and Mridula Narayan, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2631831820974585