Cohabitation Agreements

California Cohabitation Agreements Lawyer

A cohabitation agreement defines the rights and responsibilities of non-married people who are living together. Such an agreement is much like a domestic partnership agreement or prenuptial agreement — it can strengthen a relationship by removing potential sources of conflict. Should the relationship break up, it can protect the rights of one or both partners.

I am Michael A. Gardner, a family law attorney with over 20 years experience with cohabitation agreements, prenuptial agreements, domestic partnership agreements and related matters. I can help you develop an agreement designed to protect your rights, protect your assets and avoid potentially costly disputes.

Call me at 510-451-4822 or send an e-mail for a consultation.

Same sex couples and partners of different genders over the age of 62 may wish to consider establishing a domestic partnership rather than a cohabitation agreement. I can advise you regarding your options and help you make the decision that is right for you.

Why Do Couples Establish Cohabitation Agreements?

The reasons for developing a cohabitation agreement are as varied as the couples seeking to develop such agreements. A cohabitation agreement makes it clear to both parties what their responsibilities and rights are during the relationship, and what happens to property should the relationship end.

Example — a couple decides to pool their money and buy a house. One of the partners contributes a substantially greater amount of money than the other. A cohabitation agreement can protect the interests of both partners and ensure a fair division of the proceeds of a sale should the house be sold or the couple eventually split.

Example — one partner moves in with the other partner who owns a house. After a while, they decide to make a major improvement to the house, financed to a large extent by the partner who does not own the house. An agreement can define the non-owner's contribution and rights should a breakup occur.

Example — one partner has substantially greater income than the other. How do they share expenses and who is responsible for what? A cohabitation agreement can spell it out in clear language.

These are but a few examples of what cohabitation agreements can do. I can review your situation and develop a cohabitation agreement designed to accomplish your goals and protect your rights.

When Conditions Change

As time goes on, many changes in the lives of a couple can occur. I can revise an existing cohabitation agreement in a cost-effective and efficient manner. Should the relationship break up, I can advise you of your rights and if necessary, provide vigorous representation in court.

Contact a Lawyer Today

For a consultation with Oakland attorney Michael A. Gardner, call 510-451-4822 or send an e-mail.