Cohabitation Agreement And Common Law Marriage Attorneys
Today’s generation of 20-somethings and 30-somethings is waiting longer to get married than in generations past. Many of these people are in long-term, committed relationships and living with their significant others. On the other end of the spectrum, more and more senior citizens are living together, seeking companionship and help, perhaps without all the legal consequences of marriage. Living together, however, doesn’t eliminate some of the challenges when breakup (or death) occurs, especially considering Texas is a common law marriage state.
Studies have shown that one in six cohabitation relationships last three years or more, and one in 10 last five years or more. In several ways, when a long-term relationship ends, especially when the couple lives together, it can be like going through a divorce. Assets have been accumulated, careers altered or postponed, and sometimes, children produced. A cohabitation agreement is a type of contract that specifies what happens with property, debt and other items in the event the relationship does end. Divorce law does not pertain to cohabitating couples, assuming they are not in a common law marriage described below. This places a particular burden on unmarried fathers.
We understand this can be a difficult subject to bring up with your partner. If you feel unable to do so, at the least consult with a lawyer to understand your rights and responsibilities, which will enable you to make better informed decisions going forward.
At the law firm of Patricia L. Brown & Associates, we represent people who are living with their significant others and are interested in establishing a cohabitation agreement. To schedule your consultation with a Round Rock common law marriage attorney, call us at 512-436-0826 or toll-free at 866-369-3211.
Is Common Law Marriage The Same As Just Living With Someone?
No. Texas is one of the few states that recognizes common law marriage. However, there are several legal elements to establish a common law marriage. In addition to living together, both parties must believe themselves to be married and hold themselves out as spouses. That is, present themselves to others as spouses. Just because you are living with a boyfriend or girlfriend does not mean you are in a common law marriage.
A cohabitation agreement is similar to a premarital agreement, in that it provides directives for what should happen if the relationship ends. As skilled Round Rock cohabitation agreement attorneys, we can help you specify items such as the following in your cohabitation agreement:
- Division of property
- Financial support payments, if applicable
- Division of debts
- Who will make medical decisions if one person becomes incapacitated
- Who will be named conservator of one person’s estate
Of course, not all couples who live together are 20-somethings or 30-somethings. Couples of all ages live together. Perhaps you have been married once and would prefer not to marry again, for example. A cohabitation agreement can help all types of couples.
Contact A Williamson County Common Law Marriage Attorney
If you have questions about common law marriage or a cohabitation agreement, call our law firm to schedule your initial consultation. We can be reached locally at 512-436-0826 or toll-free at 866-369-3211. You can also contact us online.