Do You Need a Cohabitation Agreement Lawyer in BC? Here’s Why the Answer Is Yes
Moving in with a partner is an exciting step, but it also comes with legal and financial implications—especially in British Columbia. Without a cohabitation agreement, you could be leaving your assets, debts, and even future inheritances vulnerable in the event of a separation.
At Freedom Family Law, we know our clients sometimes wonder if they don’t need a formal agreement because they trust their partner completely. While trust is essential, a cohabitation agreement isn’t about distrust—it’s about clarity and protection for both parties. Here’s why investing in one (typically around $2,500) is far wiser than risking the costly, stressful alternative of a contentious separation.
1. Protect Your Assets Before a Dispute Arises
Under BC’s Family Law Act, unmarried couples who live together in a “marriage-like relationship” for at least two years may be subject to property division rules similar to married spouses. This means that without an agreement, your partner could be entitled to a share of assets acquired during the relationship—even if those assets are in your name alone.
A cohabitation agreement allows you to:
- Define what remains separate property (e.g., a home you owned before moving in together).
- Avoid losing control of a business by specifying whether growth in a company is shared.
- Shield inheritances from being divided as family property.
Without an agreement, you could face a lengthy legal battle to prove what’s rightfully yours—costing far more in legal fees than the agreement itself.
2. Prevent Debt and Financial Disputes
Debt can become a shared burden even if only one partner incurred it. If your partner takes on significant debt during the relationship, you could be on the hook if you ever separate—even for debt you knew nothing about.
A cohabitation agreement can:
- Clarify responsibility for existing and future debts.
- Prevent one partner’s financial decisions from harming the other.
- Outline how joint expenses will be handled to avoid misunderstandings.
Without these protections, you could be left fighting over unpaid bills or even facing collections—long after the relationship ends.
3. Avoid Costly and Stressful Legal Battles
A separation without an agreement often leads to disputes over:
- Who gets what assets.
- Whether one partner owes the other financial support.
- How shared debts should be handled.
These conflicts can quickly escalate into court battles costing upwards of $50,000—far exceeding the one-time cost of a cohabitation agreement. Even if you think you’ll never separate, having clear terms in place ensures that if the unexpected happens, both of you can part ways fairly and efficiently.
4. Maintain Control Over Your Future
Many couples assume they’ll “figure it out later” if they separate—but emotions and financial stress can make rational decision-making difficult. A cohabitation agreement:
- Lets you set the terms while you’re on good terms.
- Reduces uncertainty and conflict down the road.
- Provides peace of mind, knowing your interests are protected.
At Freedom Family Law, we help couples draft clear, enforceable agreements that reflect their unique circumstances—without unnecessary legal complexity.
The Bottom Line: A Small Investment Now Saves Major Headaches Later
A cohabitation agreement isn’t about anticipating failure—it’s about responsible planning. For roughly $2,500, you can safeguard your assets, prevent future disputes, and ensure a smoother process if your relationship status changes.
If you’re living with a partner or planning to, consulting a lawyer is the best way to ensure your agreement holds up in court. At Freedom Family Law, we make the process straightforward and transparent, so you can focus on your relationship—not potential legal risks.
Ready to protect your future? Contact us today to discuss your cohabitation agreement needs. Click here learn more about Cohabitation Agreements in BC.
**This post is not meant to be taken as legal advice. If you would like to speak to a lawyer in British Columbia, get in contact with us at Freedom Family Law by booking a free initial call here.