31-Year Unmarried Partner Evicted from Home After Girlfriend's Passing

Tragically, Wan passed away suddenly in January at the age of 67, leaving behind no will or testament. Her son, Tang, took control of her estate and promptly sold the two cars, transferred the properties into his own name, and demanded that Liu vacate the residential property. The case has highlighted the precarious situation of unmarried partners in China, where they may be denied rights to shared assets and property in the event of their partner's death. Liu's situation has sparked an outpouring of sympathy and support, with many arguing that he should have some claim to the assets they built together over three decades.

The situation is complex due to Wan's unresolved marital status. She did not divorce her previous husband before moving in with Liu, which could potentially be seen as a case of bigamy. This introduces a significant legal issue that could impact Liu's rights and claims to the assets. Public opinion is divided, with some people expressing sympathy for Liu and criticizing Tang for his actions, while others question the nature of Liu and Wan's relationship and argue that Liu may not have a legitimate claim to Wan's estate.

According to legal experts, Liu's dispute over the estate's disposal must follow the principle of "who claims, who provides evidence." Since Liu and Wan did not obtain a marriage certificate, their relationship is legally considered a cohabitation, which poses significant challenges for Liu in contesting the estate. The incident has sparked public debate about the distinction between cohabitation and marriage, serving as a reminder to consider legal implications when handling such relationships.

In the context of Chinese law, cohabitation does not confer the same rights and protections as marriage. Without a marriage certificate, Liu may not be entitled to the same inheritance rights as a spouse, making his situation even more precarious. This case highlights the importance of understanding the legal ramifications of one's relationship status and the potential consequences of not formalizing a partnership through marriage. It serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the significance of considering legal protection and securing one's rights, particularly in cases where cohabitation is involved.

The online community is divided between those who believe Liu has been wronged due to his long-term commitment to Wan and those who argue that the lack of legal marriage documentation means he cannot inherit her assets. This debate highlights the complexities of common-law relationships and the importance of legal protections for couples in such situations. As the case unfolds, it remains to be seen how the law will balance the competing interests of Liu and Tang, and what implications this may have for the rights of unmarried partners in China.