Don’t Want to Get Married? Protect Yourself Anyway!

Perhaps it’s the high divorce rate, perhaps it’s nothing more than a lifestyle choice, but more and more people in today’s society are electing not to get married. That doesn’t mean people aren’t involved in committed, long-term, and loving relationships. They are just choosing not to get married.

If you are invested in a long-term and committed relationship, but simply do not wish to get married, there are ways you can still protect yourself in the event that you and your partner decide to split up. Because the law does not protect non-married couples the way it protects married couples, it’s important to be proactive and make sure you protect yourself, especially if you and your partner share property or have children together. 

The best way to protect yourself is by drafting a cohabitation agreement or by registering as domestic partners. A cohabitation agreement is a good options for people who live together, but do not want to get married. Through this agreement you can define property rights and the rights and responsibilities of each party in the relationship. You can also address issues pertaining to child custody & visitation and child support.

Another alternative to marriage is a domestic partnership, however, not all couples will qualify. Domestic partnership is only open to same-sex couples or heterosexual couples in which one of the parties is at least 62 years old. Registering as domestic partners will entitle each party in the relationship to the many of the same rights and benefits bestowed to married couples.

If you are interested in learning more about domestic partnerships or cohabitation agreements, Riverside family law attorney Michael R. Young would be happy to discuss these topics with you in more detail. To arrange a consultation, please contact the office today by calling (866) 902-5290.