Common Issues Addressed By a Family Lawyer Markham in a Cohabitation Agreement
04/03/2021 22:00
If, like many couples, you are living with your romantic partner but are not married, considering a cohabitation agreement is prudent. Like prenuptial agreements, this agreement will be drafted by a family lawyer Markham to address some issues that you and your partner might deal with when you break up, or one of you dies. Though a cohabitation agreement can include as many things as you wish, below are the common issues address in it.
Property
Couples living together often own some property together. Dividing this property after a breakup or death can be a nightmare. The cohabitation agreement drawn by a family lawyer Markham thus includes how you will share the property you now own and that which you might get in the future. The common property included is cars, personal property, real estate, debts and inheritances.
Healthcare
In marriage, the spouse automatically becomes the next of kin in health-related issues and decides what will happen to you if you are incapacitated. Even so, when cohabiting, your agreement should have a healthcare directive. This is a legal document detailing your wishes if you become incapacitated. Your cohabitation agreement is not a substitute for the directive, but should instead mirror the latter's terms.
Children
Sometimes children are born during the cohabitation period, or the partners come with children from past relationships. Your cohabitation agreement should detail the custody of these children, care decisions, expenses and child support if you break up. This guarantees some stability in the parenting of your kids irrespective of the status of your relationship.
The creation of a cohabitation agreement addressing the above and other aspects of your relationship does not need a lot of money or time. A family lawyer Markham can negotiate and draft your agreement in a few weeks. While you might think that the money spent on an attorney is a waste, the professional will ensure your agreement is legally enforceable and fair for both parties.