I am in a live-in relationship in Mumbai and want to know what legal rights I have as a partner?

Detailed Legal Analysis

In a live-in relationship in Mumbai, you have certain legal rights that are recognized under Indian law, although the framework is not as comprehensive as that for marriage.

Key rights and protections available to partners in a live-in relationship include:

• Rights under the Domestic Violence Act, 2005: Under Section 2(f) of the Domestic Violence Act, a live-in relationship is recognized as a “relationship in the nature of marriage.” This grants partners the right to seek protection against domestic violence.
• Maintenance Rights: As per Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), a woman in a live-in relationship can claim maintenance from her partner if she is unable to sustain herself. The court will consider factors like the duration of the relationship and the financial status of both partners.
• Inheritance Rights: While live-in partners do not have the same inheritance rights as married couples, a partner can make a will bequeathing property to the other. In the absence of a will, the live-in partner may not have automatic rights to inheritance.
• Child Custody and Guardianship: If children are born out of the live-in relationship, the mother retains custody rights. The father can seek visitation or custody rights under the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890.
• Recognition in Judicial Precedents: The Supreme Court of India has recognized live-in relationships in several judgments, affirming that they cannot be treated as criminal or immoral. Notable cases include the case of *Khushboo v. Kanniammal* (2010) and *Indra Sarma v. V.K.V. Sarma* (2013), which emphasized the legitimacy of live-in relationships and their protection under law.
• Protection against Abandonment: Under the principles of natural justice, a partner can approach the courts for protection against arbitrary abandonment or denial of financial support.

It is advisable to document the relationship formally, if possible, to safeguard your rights, and consider consulting a legal expert specializing in family law for personalized advice and to understand the implications better.