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Co-habitation Agreements
Cohabitation Agreement Lawyers in Melbourne, FL
Do you want to get a fair cohabitation agreement? Are you looking for an uncomplicated, peaceful way? Our team of experienced cohabitation agreements lawyers in Melbourne, FL, will arrange all the necessary information. We’ll do what we’ve always done: to find the solution that works for you and your partner.
That’s why Figueroa Law Group has the best cohabitation agreement attorneys in Melbourne, FL. Call today to schedule your consultation. We’ll help you find the appropriate agreement specific to your needs. We’re here to help create a cohabitation agreement, prenuptial agreement, or postnuptial agreement that’s authentic and custom-tailored to you.
Why Do I need a Cohabitation Agreement Lawyers in Melbourne FL?
An experienced cohabitation agreement attorney in Melbourne, FL, can help both parties create an effective document explaining their intentions for property division after their relationship has ended. They can explain how such a contract works and how it protects your assets during the relationship. A divorce attorney can also assist you in resolving any differences in your ideas about dividing ownership of property that might arise.
A cohabitation agreement can be created individually or by working with your partner to create one together. If you have any questions about this process, contact a family law attorney as soon as possible.
But what makes a good cohabitation agreement lawyer? Here are some things to look for:
- A reputation for being accessible and easy to talk to.
- A flexible schedule so you can meet with your lawyer at a time that works for both of you.
- Priority scheduling if there’s an emergency.
- The ability to get in touch even on short notice, online, or by phone.
- The knowledge that their client is their top priority, above all else.
- Experience and skill in drafting cohabitation agreements.
Figueroa Law Group has all these qualities, and we have built a diverse and international clientele. Our law firm is even known for its flexible schedule, so you can meet with your divorce lawyer at a time that works for you. And when an emergency arises, we’ll give you priority scheduling if needed. Our family law lawyer is also known for their online resources, in case you want to contact them outside working hours.
Lastly, Figueroa Law Group’s lawyers are well-known for their experience and skill in drafting cohabitation agreements. We have the answers and guidance you need if you’re having trouble figuring out the best agreement terms or looking for legal advice before getting started on one yourself. Call us now!
What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A cohabitation agreement, also known as a nonmarital agreement, is a legal document protecting the couple’s rights and securing their financial security. This legal agreement is negotiated between the partners and outlines the responsibilities of each party.
Among the concerns that may be addressed in the cohabitation agreement are the following:
- Individual assets and liabilities held before cohabitation
- Contributions made by each partner during their cohabitation (how much each partner will put towards usual bills like rent, utilities, etc.)
- How to distribute shared assets if the couple divorces
- How to manage any shared debt in the event of divorce
- Will there be alimony or spousal support if the couple divorces?
A cohabitation agreement between same-sex or opposite-sex couples might include whatever the parties see appropriate to preserve their respective interests. This agreement will also facilitate the division of property and duties in the event of separation or even death.
A Cohabitation Agreement’s Contents
Nonmarital contracts can be simple and feature legal-sounding wording. Contrariwise, it is preferable to use straightforward language and offer as much or as little description as the couple thinks is essential. Here are some considerations:
- Property acquired during the relationship: It’s important to note how property acquired during the relationship should be handled. For instance, if one party purchases an item throughout the partnership, do both parties own it equally? Does the purchaser have ownership? What if the purchase is made using personal savings?
- Gift or inheritance-acquired property: Individuals generally prefer to maintain gifts and inheritances independent properties. If you and your spouse wish to do this, you must write it to avoid confusion.
- Property received before the partnership: Many prefer to maintain items received before the relationship as definite property. If you and your spouse wish to do this, you must write it to avoid turmoil.
- Expenses: Specify how expenses will be paid for. This can be a primary source of controversy, so it is essential to document the expectations. For instance, you may divide them 50/50 proportionately to your salary or pool your funds into a single account and pay jointly.
- Children: Unmarried couples occasionally decide to cohabitate because they have a child in common. If they separate, the couple might establish visitation and child custody in their cohabitation agreement. However, the agreement might not consider child custody and child support issues, which must be resolved independently in court.
- Death or Separation: Even if you don’t want to think about it, it’s necessary to clarify what occurs when a relationship ends, separation or death. In a divorce, it is crucial not to leave the property and finances in limbo.
- Couples may wish to outline how the agreement should be settled if a disagreement arises. A classic example would be employing mediation or arbitration before filing a lawsuit.
Why Do I Need a Cohabitation Agreement?
Many married couples believe that ‘common law marriage’ protects them in the same way as married couples if they are cohabitating but not married or in a civil partnership. However, there is no such statute. This presumption is false since cohabiting couples do not share the same legal rights as married couples or individuals in a civil partnership.
Your relationship may benefit from the security a cohabitation agreement can offer. By reaching a compromise before or throughout your cohabitation, you will:
- Understanding what your financial obligations are in detail.
- Prevent confusion about your rights and obligations, especially regarding property ownership, if you decide to stay together. This will help you avoid problems and arguments later on.
- Have concrete proof of your objectives if you must appear in court.
Prenuptial Agreement vs. Cohabitation Agreement
A cohabitation agreement may include a provision stating what will happen if the couple decides to marry, such as obtaining a prenuptial agreement or prenup, at that time. Although people use prenups whether or not they have a lot of assets, such legal papers are typically utilized for safeguarding a partner bringing considerable money, property, or both into the marriage.
A prenuptial agreement specifies what will happen to the couple’s property if they divorce. Sometimes the parties agree to keep all they owned before the marriage, and other times they agree on how much spousal support the wealthy spouse will pay the other upon divorce. A prenuptial agreement can keep one party’s property within their family and allow their children from a previous relationship to inherit it rather than the asset going to the spouse.
Are Cohabitation Agreements Recognized in Florida?
Any couple that does not want to be married but still wants the same privileges as married couples can use cohabitation agreements in Florida. Cohabitation agreements can also be used by couples who want to keep their finances apart.
Consult with a family lawyer who specializes in contracts or family law issues to ensure that your cohabitation agreement is fair, properly written, and legally binding. An attorney can help you design a contract that meets all of the rules and regulations of a lawful contract.
Call our Cohabitation Agreement Lawyers in Melbourne, FL, Now!
Legal issues often arise with cohabitation. This is why it’s a good idea to understand Florida law and to create a written agreement before proceeding. Figueroa Law Group can help you with this, so contact us today for our outstanding legal service.
Our law office has the legal experience to assist with your cohabitation agreement or other family law matter. Contact our lawyers today for help drafting a cohabitation agreement or any other family law issues!
