Cohabitation Agreements - Understanding your rights and responsibilities
Louisa Bestford, Divorce & Family

What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A Cohabitation Agreement is a legally binding contract between two people who are living together in a romantic relationship but are not married. This agreement outlines the rights, responsibilities, and obligations of each partner regarding property, finances, and other important matters. It serves to protect both parties in the event of a breakup and helps to clarify expectations during the relationship.

Why consider a Cohabitation Agreement?
There are several reasons why couples might consider entering into a Cohabitation Agreement:

• Protection of assets: A Cohabitation Agreement can help protect individual assets and ensure that property division is fair in the event of a separation.
• Financial arrangements: The agreement can outline how bills, expenses, and debts will be managed, reducing potential conflicts.
• Support for children: If the couple has children, the agreement can include provisions for their care and financial support.
• Clarity and peace of mind: Having a clear understanding of each partner's rights and responsibilities can provide peace of mind and reduce misunderstandings.

Key components of a Cohabitation Agreement
A comprehensive Cohabitation Agreement typically includes the following components:

• Property ownership: Details about the ownership of property acquired before and during the relationship.
• Financial contributions: How each partner will contribute to household expenses and bills.
• Debt management: How debts incurred during the relationship will be handled.
• Support and maintenance: Provisions for financial support if one partner becomes unable to work or if the relationship ends.
• Custody and support of children: Arrangements for the care and financial support of any children from the relationship.
• Dispute resolution: Methods for resolving disagreements, such as mediation or arbitration.
• Termination: Conditions under which the agreement can be terminated or modified.

Legal considerations
Before entering into a Cohabitation Agreement, it's advisable to seek legal advice to ensure that the document is fair, comprehensive, and legally binding. Both partners should have independent legal counsel to review the agreement and ensure their interests are adequately protected. In some jurisdictions, cohabitation agreements must be in writing and signed by both parties to be enforceable.

Steps to creating a Cohabitation Agreement
Creating a cohabitation agreement involves several steps:

1. Discuss and agree on terms: Both partners should openly discuss their expectations and come to a mutual agreement on the terms of the contract.
2. Draft the agreement: Work with a lawyer to draft a detailed and comprehensive agreement.
3. Independent legal advice: Each partner should seek independent legal advice to ensure their interests are protected.
4. Review and revise: Review the draft agreement and make any necessary revisions.
5. Sign and execute: Both partners should sign the agreement in the presence of a witness, if required by law.
6. Keep records: Keep copies of the signed agreement in a safe place for future reference.

Advantages and disadvantages
While cohabitation agreements offer several benefits, they also have some potential drawbacks:

Advantages:

• Provides clarity and protection for both partners.
• Reduces the potential for conflict during or after the relationship.
• Can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the couple.

Disadvantages:

• May be seen as unromantic or unnecessary by some couples.
• Legal fees and costs associated with drafting and reviewing the agreement.
• Potential for the agreement to be challenged in court if not properly drafted.

Next steps
A Cohabitation Agreement is a valuable tool for couples who wish to protect their interests and clarify their responsibilities while living together. By addressing important issues such as property ownership, financial arrangements, and support for children, the agreement can provide peace of mind and reduce potential conflicts. Seeking legal advice and carefully drafting the agreement can ensure that it is fair and legally enforceable.

Louisa Bestford and the Divorce & Family Team can provide more information and guidance on creating a Cohabitation Agreement.