Live-in Relationship under Uniform Civil Code: A Critical Evaluation of Emerging Legal Trends

Live-in relationships have emerged as a significant feature of contemporary family and social life, particularly in the context of globalization, urbanization, changing social attitudes, and the increasing recognition of individual autonomy. Unlike traditional marriages, live-in relationships are generally formed without formal solemnization or registration, thereby creating a distinct legal and social category. While courts in several jurisdictions, including India, have progressively recognized certain rights arising from such relationships, the absence of a comprehensive and uniform legal framework continues to create uncertainty concerning the rights, duties, and responsibilities of the parties involved. This paper seeks to examine the need for a coherent legal framework governing live-in relationships, with particular emphasis on the protection of individual rights, financial and property interests, maintenance, inheritance, domestic violence, child welfare, and dissolution of the relationship. It further explores whether legal recognition should necessarily be accompanied by corresponding duties and obligations between partners. The study critically evaluates the existing judicial and legislative approaches and identifies gaps arising from fragmented regulation. It argues that legal intervention should neither impose the complete structure of marriage upon live-in relationships nor leave vulnerable partners without adequate protection. A balanced framework, based on autonomy, equality, accountability, dignity, and protection against exploitation, is therefore necessary to address the evolving realities of intimate relationships in contemporary society.