Starting a Relationship

Starting a relationship

While it may be hard to imagine during the beginning stages of a relationship, the reality is that not all couples stand the test of time. When starting a relationship with a partner, a marriage or cohabitation agreement can help address expectations during the relationship, handle difficulties that arise whenever people live together and, if the worst does happen, set a plan for what to do if the partnership ends.

Cohabitation & Marriage Agreements

At the beginning of a relationship, many people decide to create cohabitation agreements. These are contracts signed by couples who will be living together in a married or unmarried relationship. The agreement typically deals with the significant issues that arise in the event of the end of a relationship, such as how property and debt will be divided and whether spousal support will be paid. However, the agreement can also deal with a variety of issues that arise during the relationship: anything from how ongoing expenses are paid, to outlining how debt will be incurred or to determining how each party which chooses to give their Power of Attorney or authority under a Representation Agreements.

What’s the difference between cohabitation and marriage agreements?

• A marriage agreement can be made between two people who are planning to marry, or who are already married.
• A cohabitation agreement can be made between two people who are planning on living together or already doing so. Often these agreements refer to the likelihood or possibility of marriage in the future and confirm that the agreement will continue to operate after that marriage.

How We Can Help

Kristin can provide you with insight on the legalities of starting a relationship so that you and your partner can adeptly navigate the journey of your life together, both now and down the road.

Kristin can provide you with insight on the legalities of starting a relationship so that you and your partner can adeptly navigate the journey of your life together, both now and down the road.

With her experience and understanding, Kristin helps break down complex documents and processes in an easy to understand way. She will share her insight into the steps you need to take and considerations you need to make including:

  • Issues you’ll want to deal with
  • Issues a marriage or cohabitation agreement can’t deal with
  • The enforceability of these legal agreements
  • What it means to end or change an agreement

Retainers

Some of our retainers are fairly standard, though we still consider these approximations only, please take a look at the costs below for a general idea of what to expect:

Independent Legal Advice on a lawyer prepared cohabitation, marriage or separation agreement: approximately $270 ($250, plus GST and PST).

Simple Agreement – meaning a basic cohabitation, marriage or separation agreement when the parties already know what they need in the agreement (an initial consultation meeting with Kristin will still be required to confirm whether your situation meets these requirements): approximately $2000

For more information on legal fees at Kristin M.J. Rongve Law Corporation contact our office today 250-390-3157.

Book a consultation today