How to Write a Palimony Agreement

Ever since the famous palimony case "Marvin vs. Marvin" put unmarried co-habitators on their toes in 1976, many people have chosen to protect themselves with a written agreement before moving in together. If you and your partner have decided that a palimony agreement is a good idea, follow these steps to make sure it covers everything.

Instructions

1. Include the names of the parties, what both expect from the relationship, the date the agreement becomes effective and when it will expire.

2. List in detail which party owns what. Be specific about all property and include everything from personal items to pets. Decide how to divide property acquired during the course of the relationship should it end and write that into the contract.

3. Explain who'll manage income and who'll be responsible for what debts. You may decide to keep your income and debts separate, but include this in the agreement regardless. Decide how you'll handle the finances if one of you loses a job or becomes ill and can't work.

4. Outline who is responsible for which household chores and home maintenance tasks and how much time each person can be expected to commit to them.

5. Determine which party should be responsible for birth control, and include provisions for the care of children should there be any. Include existing child-care arrangements with regards to children already in the home, and how they may change under specific circumstances.

6. State the procedure for changing the agreement and ending the contract. For instance, decide whether the agreement will become an alimony contract if you decide to get married, or whether a new agreement should be created.