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Living Together Contracts
Though it may be difficult to think about it, it's especially important to consider what will happen if one of you dies. Without properly prepared documents, members of an unmarried couple have no right to inherit property from one another. You can use your living together agreement to specify how you want to provide for each other; it will serve as strong evidence of your intentions. Be aware, however, that writing out a plan in your agreement is not enough. You should also use a will, living trust or other estate planning documents to ensure that your plan is carried out as you wish. For more information about ways to leave your property at death, see the Wills and Estate Planning area of Nolo's website.
Dispute Resolution
We recommend that every couple who prepares a living together contract include a method for resolving any disagreements that later arise out of it. Traditionally, it this type of dispute was severe, a couple had to go to court to resolve it, but there are better alternatives now. You may want to make mediation your first-choice method for resolving disputes, stating in your agreement that you will choose a third party to help you resolve any disagreements about your living together contract. If mediation is unsuccessful, you might allow either partner to submit the dispute to formal and binding arbitration. This should be enough to avoid the complications and expenses of a lawsuit.
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FAQs
- May two unmarried people who are living together enter into agreements about sharing expenses or acquiring property?
- Will a court enforce an agreement by which one unmarried partner agrees to keep house and the other promises financial support?
- Can two people live together without being married?
Living Together Resources
Helpful tools and forms available for purchase.Financial advisors recommend a pre-nup. Find premarital forms and contracts here. Save time and money with a basic pre-nup form.
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