Do We Need a Cohabitation Agreement?

You're committed, you're moving in together and you're blending your households. But are you forgetting something? Many Canadians find themselves in common-law relationships and think that they aren't any different from a legal marriage. It can be a shock to find out that, when the going gets tough, certain rights under the law--not to mention financial obligations--do or do not apply. A cohabitation agreement allows a couple to make sure their partner and any children are taken care of in times of need or crisis; that ownership in properties or financial resources are clear, combined, separated or protected. Do We Need a Cohabitation Agreement? is written in clear, nontechnical language and includes real-life examples based on Canadian cases, addressing topics including wills and estates, powers of attorney, the special concerns of step-families and same-sex couples, and how to have this discussion with your partner.