In modern India, many couples now prefer Live-in Relationships instead of immediate marriage. But there is still confusion — is live-in legal?, do partners have rights?, what about protection for women?

Here is a clear guide to understand the legal rights of partners in a live-in relationship under Indian law:

Is Live-in Relationship Legal in India?

Yes — the Supreme Court of India has repeatedly said that live-in relationships between consenting adults are legal and protected under Article 21 (Right to Life & Liberty).

👉 There is no law that says live-in is illegal. But there is no detailed act to govern it, like marriage laws — so legal interpretation is based on judgments.

Important Judgments Supporting Live-in Rights

• Lata Singh vs State of UP (2006) — Supreme Court said adults have right to live together.
• Indra Sarma vs VKV Sarma (2013) — Court gave clarity on women’s rights in live-in relationships.
• Nandakumar & Anr vs State of Kerala (2018) — Live-in relationships between consenting adults allowed even if marriage age not reached.

Rights of Female Partner in Live-in Relationship

Women have strong legal protections even in live-in:

1️⃣ Protection from Domestic Violence
Under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005, a woman in live-in can claim protection against harassment and abuse.

2️⃣ Right to Residence
A woman can claim the right to stay in the shared household.

3️⃣ Maintenance/Alimony
In some cases, the woman can also claim maintenance if relationship is long-term and stable (similar to marriage).

Rights of Children from Live-in Relationship

• Children born from a live-in relationship are considered legitimate.
• They have the right to inherit property from parents.
• They can claim maintenance and other legal protections.

How to Prove Live-in Relationship Legally?

• Joint bank accounts
• Joint lease/rent agreements
• Photographs, travel tickets
• Social proof (witnesses)
• Any shared documents

These help in claiming rights if needed.

What Problems Can Arise in Live-in Relationships?

• Family opposition
• Social stigma
• Lack of property rights (unless proven)
• Inheritance disputes
• Police harassment — in some cases, couples file for police protection through courts.

How We Help You

If you are in a live-in relationship in Jaipur or Rajasthan, and want:

✅ Legal guidance
✅ Drafting of Live-in Agreement
✅ Police protection
✅ Protection from harassment
✅ Maintenance advice
✅ Legal support in disputes

You can contact us for expert help:

📞 6367316982
🌐 www.courtmarriageinjaipur.com

Useful Links:

👉 Supreme Court Judgments on Live-in Relationship
👉 Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005