Clear terms for cohabitation agreements, created by trusted Toronto family lawyers.
Experienced Cohabitation Agreement Lawyers in Toronto and Ontario
Living together brings love, connection, and legal considerations that shouldn’t be overlooked. At Nussbaum Law, our experienced cohabitation lawyers in Toronto help couples draft clear, legally sound agreements that protect finances, define responsibilities, and prepare for the unexpected. Whether you’re moving in together, planning a long-term partnership, or seeking to protect your property and assets, our team provides practical, results-focused legal solutions.
- Clarify property ownership, debt responsibilities, and support terms
- Protect your financial interests
- Set clear expectations to avoid future disputes
- Take control of your financial future today.
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What Is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding document for couples who live together but are not married. It outlines how property, finances, and support will be handled if the relationship ends. Unlike a prenuptial agreement, it doesn’t require marriage, making it ideal for unmarried partners who want clarity and security.
At Nussbaum Law, our experienced Toronto family lawyers draft clear, tailored cohabitation agreements that protect your rights, reduce future conflict, and provide peace of mind.
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Why You Need a Cohabitation Agreement
Living together brings love and connection-but also legal and financial risks. A cohabitation agreement is your shield, providing clarity, security, and peace of mind for both partners.
Financial Protection and Asset Clarity
A cohabitation agreement outlines how property, debts, and financial responsibilities are handled. This ensures that both parties are protected and reduces the chance of disputes in the future. If you are also navigating related financial matters like spousal support or child support, clear terms can help prevent legal issues later.
Avoiding Legal Disputes and Stress
Without a cohabitation agreement, disagreements can escalate into costly legal battles. This agreement lays out expectations in advance, minimizing conflict and stress if the relationship ends.
Tailored Support for Your Unique Situation
Every relationship is different. Our team of experienced lawyers create agreements customized to your needs and circumstances, taking into account common law in Ontario as well. Protect your future with a document that’s as unique as your relationship.
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Our Clients and Their Stories
Who We Help
We serve individuals and couples across Toronto and Ontario who:
- Want to proactively define financial and legal responsibilities before or during cohabitation.
- Seek clear, fair protection for both partners when navigating complex family and property matters.
- Are planning to live together and wish to protect assets, avoid disputes, and clarify expectations.
- Have significant assets or debts and need a strong, tailored agreement to safeguard their future.
Whether you’re planning a life together or reassessing existing arrangements, our team of experienced cohabitation agreement lawyers is here to guide you.
How We Make It Easy For You
Our Process: How We Help You Secure a Strong Cohabitation Agreement
Creating a cohabitation agreement can feel overwhelming, but with Nussbaum Law by your side, it’s a structured and supportive journey. Here’s how we guide you:
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We start with a free consultation to understand your relationship, goals, and financial situation. This no-obligation conversation helps us identify your needs and answer your questions.
Step 2: Tailored Agreement Drafting
Once we have a clear understanding, we draft a personalized cohabitation agreement. This document outlines how property, debts, support, and other matters will be handled should the relationship end. We ensure the agreement reflects your unique circumstances and complies with Ontario law.
Step 3: Review and Revisions
We walk you through the draft, explaining key terms and clauses to ensure you’re comfortable with everything. If needed, we make revisions until the agreement aligns with your intentions and priorities.
Step 4: Finalization and Signing
Once you’re satisfied, we formalize the agreement. Our team provides clear instructions for signing, ensuring it’s legally binding and ready to protect your interests.
Step 5: Ongoing Support
Life changes, and so might your needs. We’re here to help review and update your cohabitation agreement if your circumstances shift, keeping it relevant and effective.
What's Included in a Cohabitation Agreement
A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the financial and property arrangements between partners in a common-law relationship. It covers key aspects of your shared life, including:
- Ownership and division of property acquired during the relationship
- Spousal support provisions if the relationship ends
- How shared debts and financial obligations will be handled
- Who stays in the family home or who needs to leave
- Ownership of jointly purchased items, investments, or savings
- Protection for retirement funds and personal investments
This clear structure ensures that both parties know their rights and responsibilities, minimizing confusion and conflict if the relationship breaks down.
What's Not Included in a Cohabitation Agreement
While cohabitation agreements are comprehensive, they do not cover everything. Certain matters fall outside their scope, such as:
- Child custody and access arrangements
- Parenting time and decision-making responsibility
- These matters are determined separately, based on the child’s best interests and family law standards. Additionally, if a couple gets married, certain aspects of the cohabitation agreement (such as the family home rules) may need to be updated to reflect new legal rights and responsibilities.
Legal Benefits of a Cohabitation Agreement
Having a cohabitation agreement in place offers both partners peace of mind and practical protection. It prevents disputes by clearly defining financial and property arrangements, especially for partners with significant assets or different earning capacities. The agreement helps avoid costly and stressful litigation if the relationship ends. It also allows couples to update terms as life circumstances change-such as shifts in income, new property acquisitions, or changes in family structure.
Why Choose Nussbaum Law
When it comes to protecting your rights and future through cohabitation agreements, experience and understanding matter. At Nussbaum Law, we pride ourselves on providing clear, effective legal guidance tailored to your unique needs. Our team stands by your side to ensure your cohabitation agreement is strong, fair, and legally sound.
- Experienced cohabitation agreement lawyers with a deep understanding of Ontario law.
- Tailored, practical solutions to protect your financial and legal interests.
- Compassionate support and clear communication every step of the way.
- Proven track record of helping clients avoid costly disputes and secure fair agreements.
- Convenient consultation options, including free case reviews.
- Trusted by individuals and couples across Toronto and Ontario.
Our goal is to make legal processes less stressful and more empowering. When you choose Nussbaum Law, you choose a team dedicated to securing your peace of mind and your future.
Take the First Step Today
Secure your future and gain peace of mind with cohabitation agreements tailored to your needs. Our experienced team at Nussbaum Law is ready to guide you through the process and protect your legal rights.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and get started on creating a solid foundation for your relationship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common concerns about cohabitation agreements in Ontario
Are cohabitation agreements valid in Ontario courts?
Yes. As long as a cohabitation agreement is properly signed and witnessed, Ontario courts generally uphold it. To strengthen its enforceability, both parties should obtain independent legal advice from a cohabitation lawyer before signing.
Do I need a lawyer to create a cohabitation agreement in Ontario?
While not legally required, having a cohabitation agreement lawyer ensures your document complies with Ontario law, protects your rights, and won’t be easily challenged in court.
Can a cohabitation agreement include spousal support?
Yes. A well-drafted agreement can specify if spousal support will be paid, how much, and under what conditions. This can prevent disputes and protect both parties in case of separation.
What happens to a cohabitation agreement if we get married?
If a common-law couple gets married, the existing cohabitation agreement may automatically become a marriage contract. It’s best to review the agreement with a lawyer to ensure it still reflects your current situation.
Can a court overturn a cohabitation agreement in Ontario?
Yes. A court can overturn the agreement if it finds signs of coercion, lack of legal advice, or if the terms are significantly unfair. That’s why having an experienced cohabitation lawyer is so important.
What real clients say about us
Trusted by families across Toronto for reliable, results-focused legal help
Clear advice, multiple strategies, and honest communication. Barry handled my case efficiently with fair, transparent billing throughout the process.
Barry explained every step with clarity, patience, and professionalism. Court preparation was thorough, and his commitment showed throughout.
Nussbaum Law handled my family matter with care, professionalism, and clear communication. I would confidently recommend their services.
Professional, attentive, and thorough—Barry and his team delivered strong representation when it mattered most. I’m grateful for their support.
Barry and his team turned a complicated situation into a respectful resolution. Their approach was steady, thoughtful, and highly professional.
Barry approaches every case with focus, clarity, and a practical mindset. Working with him made a difficult situation manageable.
Barry handled my family matter with care, professionalism, and clear communication. I would confidently recommend their services.
Barry consistently provides timely, reliable legal support. I’ve used his services and referred others with full confidence every single time.
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– Barry Nussbaum, JD, MBA, Senior Lawyer
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