California Cohabitation Agreements
A Contract Establishes Financial Responsibilities
When an unmarried couple is living together, the end of the relationship can result in hard feelings and expensive litigation. Often called “Marvin agreements” after a “palimony” case that kept California courts and lawyers busy for some time, a well-drafted cohabitation agreement can settle financial matters at the beginning of a relationship.
A long-term relationship when a couple is sharing a home – married or unmarried – can blur financial boundaries and rights to property. Attorneys at Stolar & Associates, long experienced in family law, listen carefully and create a contract that fits the circumstances.
A Cohabitation Agreement Provides More Certainty.
When a couple decides to live together, both parties should assess what they bring to the relationship and take steps to protect their assets. Both parties should have a lawyer to ensure their interests are protected. The agreement can be negotiated prior to moving in together or at a later date.
By negotiating a cohabitation agreement, both parties can have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations. During the relationship and if the relationship ends, who pays what expenses, how is property divided, and how will finances be managed and distributed? Are there children or extended family involved? How will they be affected?
Protect Your Assets and Your Future with a Cohabitation Agreement.
In an unmarried relationship in which the couple is cohabiting, the laws can be confusing and subject to various interpretations. The parties do not have the same financial protections and obligations under California community property as married couples. A well-drafted contract can determine the financial rights and responsibilities of your long-term relationship.
Talk to an experienced lawyer for a free consultation about a California cohabitation agreement. Call 310.288.1828 or send us an e-mail.
