Cohabitation

June 14, 2022

Cohabitation Agreements: Can Certain Rights Be Protected for Unmarried Couples?

I have written at length about the benefits of prenuptial agreements in building a strong marital foundation. While many couples seek the benefits that a prenup can provide, there is an increasing number of couples that choose to live together for the long term without getting married. Although they may not choose to marry, these couples often want the same (or similar) protections that are sought through a prenup. While certain benefits and protections come only with marriage, there are certain issues that can be addressed in a written agreement. Continue Reading

August 4, 2018

Variations on a Prenup: Making Multigenerational Homeownership Work

by Deborah Hope Wayne

I recently read a New York Times article addressing the growing trend of multigenerational households and the benefits of a so-called ‘prenup’ for this type of homeownership. The reasons for a contractual arrangement about home ownership for families can range from financial considerations to the added support in raising young children. Here are some of the factors to be considered when thinking about purchasing a home with parents or adult children: Continue Reading

August 18, 2014

Second Parent Adoptions

by Deborah Hope Wayne

Many people are aware of step-parent adoptions in which a person may legally adopt his or her spouse’s children in order to become a legal parent. However, there is also an option for same-sex couples as well as non-married couples: second parent adoption. The premise remains the same in that it allows the adopting parent to become a legal parent of the child. Due to recent law changes allowing gay and lesbian couples to marry in many states, it is important to consider the importance of second parent adoptions in light of these changes.
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August 5, 2014

As Less Couples Say “I Do,” More Couples Opt for No-Nups

by Deborah Hope Wayne

I’ve blogged before about different elements of pre-nups and how to approach making one with your significant other. However, the focus of pre-nups is usually about opening up communication channels and building a foundation for a healthy marriage. I recently read an article in the New York Times which focused on “no-nups” – agreements that couples enter into without an upcoming wedding. The no-nup is essentially a cohabitation agreement which is a legal agreement made by two people choosing to live together. As fewer couples look to walk down the aisle, cohabitation is becoming more commonplace. Although a no-nup may be formed for a couple with no intent to marry, the underlying principle remains the same – for each party to know “where they stand” and to be protected no matter what the relationship may bring.
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