My partner and I don’t plan on getting married. Can we still get a prenup?

In Canada, a prenuptial agreement is specifically designed for couples who plan to get married. However, if you and your partner are not planning to get married but still want to establish legal and financial arrangements, you can make a cohabitation agreement.

A cohabitation agreement serves the same purpose as a prenuptial agreement but is tailored for unmarried couples who live together or plan to live together. This agreement allows you to outline how assets, debts, property, and other matters will be managed during the relationship and in the event of a breakup or separation.

Cohabitation agreements can cover a wide range of issues, including:

• Division of property and assets acquired during the relationship
• Financial support or obligations during the relationship or in the event of separation
• Responsibilities for shared expenses and household finances
• Some things about children and/or step-children, if applicable
• Any other matters that are important to you and your partner.

By creating a cohabitation agreement, you and your partner can clarify expectations, protect your interests, and establish a framework for your relationship, even if marriage is not in your plans.

Click here to start building your agreement together.

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Aimee Schalles

Hi, I'm Aimee, a co-founder of Jointly. I’ve been working as a lawyer in British Columbia for over ten years. I run a small law firm and love helping people solve everyday problems. I’ve seen the difficulties that ordinary people face in accessing reliable legal services. I’ve also seen many friends and clients go through challenging separations that could have been improved if they’d have had a prenup or cohabitation agreement. I hope Jointly helps people make the relationship agreement they’ve been thinking about!

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