Cohabitation is defined as two people living together as if they are married.
In Texas, when a man and women agree to be married, live together as husband and wife and represent to others they are married, they are common law married. In situations where a couple lives together, problems and confusion can arise whether or not a couple intends to be married. Third parties might assume a couple is married or sometimes one partner may consider the relationship as a common law marriage. When situations like these happen, a cohabitation agreement can be helpful.
A cohabitation agreement is a legal agreement reached between a couple that has chosen to live together. This agreement can specify how the following things are to be distributed in the event the relationship ends:
- Property,
- Assets,
- Income,
- Debt,
- Etc.
A couple is able to include spousal support stipulations and life insurance policy information in the agreement. Also, if a couple decides to get married, the information in their cohabitation agreement can be included in their premarital agreement.
Additionally, a couple should consider implementing estate planning documents such as, a power of attorney and a HIPAA authorization to ensure that their significant other will be able to make medical and financial decisions in the event something happens to them.
Do You Need To Speak To A Dallas, Texas Cohabitation Agreement Lawyer?
We hope you found this information helpful! Contact us online or call our Dallas office directly at 214.559.7202 to schedule a consultation with one of our family law attorneys.
