Cohabitation agreements in California
What they cover, why unmarried partners need one, and what happens if you don't have one.
If you share a home with someone you're not married to, this is for you.
Cohabitation agreements aren't only for romantic partners. Anyone sharing property or expenses without the legal framework marriage provides can benefit from putting the arrangement in writing.
Unmarried partners
Friends buying together
Siblings & family co-owners
Chosen family
What should be included in a cohabitation agreement?
Common terms we cover when drafting your agreement:
Property ownership
Who owns what, in what shares, and how ownership is documented on title.
Debt responsibility
Who is responsible for the mortgage, loans, and any debts tied to the property.
Expense sharing
How monthly costs, repairs, and improvements are split between you.
Support obligations
Whether either person owes the other financial support, and on what terms.
Child custody arrangements
Where relevant to your family, coordinated with your broader plan.
Conflict resolution
How disagreements get settled — without ending up in court.
What happens if we don't have one?
Without a cohabitation agreement, the law may not recognize shared ownership or financial obligations, leaving partners unprotected in the event of a separation.
A written agreement settles all of it in advance, while everyone still likes each other.
