How to Write a Cohabitation Agreement

When you consider living with your partner rather than marrying him or her, you need to think about the potential legal ramifications of this type of arrangement in the event of certain life-changing events, such as child custody, dissolution of the relationship or even death. To clarify these considerations, you should write a cohabitation agreement. Follow these steps to create this type of document.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a sample cohabitation agreement online to use as your guide. This will make it easier for you to incorporate all of the relevant considerations into your agreement.

2. Clarify who the parties to the cohabitation agreement are and what rights each person is accorded. Major considerations include distribution of property in the event of death or dissolution of the relationship.

3. Define the way in which debts will be handled during and after the relationship. This way there is no misunderstanding about the manner in which bills will be paid.

4. Address the issue of child custody in the event of dissolution. This will allow you both a sense of trust and security in the event that you bear children together.

5. Get the document notarized and witnessed. After doing this, keep a copy in a safe place, such as a safety deposit box.

Resources

• Find Law
• Cohabitation Agreements-Equality in Marriage Institute

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