In today’s evolving landscape of relationships, more couples are choosing to live together without getting married. Whether you’re in a long-term committed relationship, just moving in together, or blending families, it’s essential to protect both your rights and your partner’s. In Edmonton, Alberta, cohabitation agreements offer a powerful legal tool for doing exactly that—and Watchmaker Family Lawyers is here to help guide you through every step of the process.
What Is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A cohabitation agreement is a legally binding contract between two people who live together in a relationship but are not married. It outlines each party’s rights and obligations during the relationship and, most importantly, in the event that the relationship ends—either through separation or death.
This agreement can cover a wide range of issues, such as:
• Division of property and assets
• Responsibility for debts
• Financial support or obligations
• Ownership of shared or individual homes
• Parenting arrangements if children are involved
In Alberta, cohabiting partners are often referred to as being in an “Adult Interdependent Relationship” (AIR). After living together for 3 years or sooner if you have a child together or sign an Adult Interdependent Partnership Agreement, you are legally recognized in a way similar to a married couple—and that comes with both rights and responsibilities.
That’s where Watchmaker Family Lawyers come in.
Why You Need a Cohabitation Agreement
You might assume that just because you’re not married, the law won’t get involved if your relationship ends. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
In Alberta, once you qualify as Adult Interdependent Partners, laws like the Family Property Act apply. This means that any property acquired during the relationship may be subject to equal division—even if it’s in one person’s name.
A cohabitation agreement allows couples to:
• Avoid costly disputes if the relationship ends
• Clarify expectations around finances and property
• Protect children and dependents from previous relationships
• Maintain financial independence where desired
Think of it as relationship insurance: You hope you won’t need it, but you’ll be glad you have it if something goes wrong.
How Watchmaker Family Lawyers Can Help
1. Personalized Legal Advice
No two relationships are the same, and Watchmaker Family Lawyers understands that. Their legal team takes the time to learn about your relationship, lifestyle, financial situation, and future goals. Based in Edmonton, they’re well-versed in Alberta’s legal framework and offer tailored advice that reflects your specific needs.
2. Drafting and Reviewing Agreements
Whether you want to draft a brand-new agreement or review one your partner has proposed, Watchmaker Family Lawyers will ensure the document is clear, fair, and enforceable. They make sure that both parties understand what they’re signing—and that the agreement complies with Alberta laws.
3. Negotiating Fair Terms
Sometimes, partners don’t see eye to eye on everything. The lawyers at Watchmaker are skilled negotiators who can help facilitate respectful discussions and find common ground. Their goal is always to create an agreement that stands the test of time and minimizes future conflict.
4. Ensuring Legal Validity
For a cohabitation agreement to hold up in court, certain legal standards must be met:
• It must be in writing
• Both parties must sign it voluntarily
• Each party must have independent legal advice
• There must be full financial disclosure
Watchmaker Family Lawyers ensures that your agreement checks all these boxes, so it can be confidently relied upon in the future.
5. Future-Proofing the Agreement
Life changes. Whether you’re buying a house, having children, or starting a business, your cohabitation agreement should reflect these changes. Watchmaker Family Lawyers can help amend or update the agreement as your relationship evolves, keeping it relevant and effective.
Common Questions About Cohabitation Agreements in Edmonton
“Can we make an agreement after we’ve already moved in together?”
Yes! While it’s ideal to draft a cohabitation agreement before moving in, you can still create one at any point during the relationship. Watchmaker Family Lawyers can help you do this, no matter where you are in your journey.
“Will my partner and I need separate lawyers?”
Yes, for an agreement to be legally binding in Alberta, both parties must receive independent legal advice. Watchmaker Family Lawyers can represent one party and can refer the other to a trusted colleague for the second opinion.
“What if we decide to get married later?”
You can either update the agreement or have it transition into a prenuptial agreement (or postnuptial agreement if you’re already married). The legal team at Watchmaker can help make that transition smooth and compliant with Alberta’s marriage laws.
Why Choose Watchmaker Family Lawyers?
Watchmaker Family Lawyers is an Edmonton-based law firm known for client-centered service, deep knowledge of Alberta family law, and a practical, empathetic approach. Their mission is to empower individuals and couples to make informed decisions about their relationships and future security.
When it comes to cohabitation agreements, they offer:
• Transparent, up-front pricing
• Clear, jargon-free communication
• Flexible appointments and remote consultations
• Ongoing support even after the agreement is signed
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting a new chapter or protecting the one you’ve built, a cohabitation agreement is one of the smartest steps you can take. And with Watchmaker Family Lawyers by your side, the process doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated.
If you’re in Edmonton or the surrounding area, and you’re thinking about a cohabitation agreement—or just have questions about your legal rights—reach out to Watchmaker Family Lawyers today for a confidential consultation.
Plan with peace of mind. Protect what matters most.
