Why Should I Get a Cohabitation Agreement?

cohabitation agreements

Moving in with a romantic partner is an exciting step, but it also comes with important financial and legal considerations. In Canada, a cohabitation agreement is a valuable tool for couples who live together but are not married. 

This legally binding contract outlines each partner’s rights and responsibilities during the relationship and what will happen if the relationship ends.

 

What Does a Cohabitation Agreement Do?

A cohabitation agreement can cover a variety of topics, including:

  • Property Division: Specifies how assets acquired before and during the relationship will be divided.

  • Debt Responsibility: Clarifies how shared and individual debts will be handled.
  • Spousal Support: Determines whether one partner may be entitled to financial support if the relationship ends.
  • Other Personal Arrangements: Can include agreements about household expenses, pets, or other shared responsibilities.
 

Why Should You Have a Cohabitation Agreement?

  1. Protects Your Assets – Without an agreement, Saskatchewan’s family property laws may apply to your relationship after two years of cohabitation, meaning assets could be subject to division in a breakup.
  2. Avoids Uncertainty and Conflict – A clear agreement helps prevent misunderstandings and disputes if the relationship ends.
  3. Clarifies Financial Responsibilities – It sets expectations for how expenses and debts will be shared during the relationship.
  4. Provides Legal Protection – Having a written agreement ensures that both parties’ rights and interests are safeguarded.
 

While no one enters a relationship expecting it to end, planning ahead can provide peace of mind. 

A cohabitation agreement allows couples to focus on building a strong relationship without worrying about the “what-ifs.” If you’re considering moving in with your partner, consulting a family lawyer can help you create an agreement that meets your needs and ensures your future is protected.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

Tags:

Why Should I Get a Cohabitation Agreement?

EN, FR, ES
  • Book Instantly
  • Standard Booking
  • Standard Booking
  • Emergency Request
Book InstantlyStandard BookingStandard BookingEmergency Request
$99
15 min
$99
15 min
$500
45 min
$299
15 min
Consult Format
Telephone
in-person
videocall
Telephone callTelephone callTelephone call
In-person
Videocall
Telephone call
Availability Window1 hr before & 1 hr after (135 min) 1 hr before & 1 hr after (135 min)Set time (45 min)Set time (15 min)
Lawyer Selection
Lawyers are assigned based on availability for instant and emergency requests
Your choiceYour choiceYour choiceNext available
Payment Options
Standard booking receives credit card, e-transfer, paypal, debit, cheque, & cash.
Credit Card
Paypal
Credit Card
E-transfer
Paypal
Debit
Cheque
Cash.
Credit Card
E-transfer
Paypal
Debit
Cheque
Cash.
Credit Card
Paypal
Speak to a Lawyer
Minimum notice to book.
Within 1-2 business days*Within 2-3 business days*Within 2-3 business days*Within 24 hours*
Get StartedGet StartedGet StartedGet Started

Based on availability*