A reader, Bich Nu, has submitted a query regarding inheritance rights following the death of her long-term partner. For 18 years, they lived together and built a life, but never legally registered their marriage, leaving her in a precarious position regarding the substantial assets accumulated.

Eighteen years ago, Ms. Nu, then an unmarried woman, was introduced to a widower in his late 40s who had two children. They chose to live together, focusing on their mutual affection rather than legal documentation. Together, they diligently built a successful farm, raising poultry and shrimp, and brought up his two children.

After his children were grown and married, Ms. Nu’s partner passed away a few years later. The assets they amassed are now considerable, but without a marriage certificate, Ms. Nu lacks legal recognition as his spouse. All property and businesses were registered in his name. Fortunately, his children have been kind and supportive, acknowledging her as their true mother despite the lack of a legal marriage. They wish for her to receive an equal share of the inheritance, as if she were his legal wife, which has deeply touched her.

Ms. Nu now seeks legal clarification: "Does the law permit such an arrangement? Under what circumstances can individuals who live together as husband and wife share inherited assets, and how would this division occur? Specifically, how would the law apply to my situation?"

This query highlights a common legal gray area for unregistered partnerships, prompting a need for expert advice from legal professionals like lawyer Pham Thanh Binh.