Cohabitation Agreement Services

in Cleveland & Northeast Ohio

COHABITATION

Marriage isn’t for everyone — but living together comes with legal and financial risks if you don’t put certain protections in place. A cohabitation agreement allows unmarried couples to clearly define their rights and responsibilities before moving in together or making joint financial commitments.



We help individuals and couples across Cleveland, Independence, Westlake, Akron, and Beachwood draft customized, enforceable cohabitation agreements that reflect their unique circumstances and goals.

What Is a Cohabitation Agreement?

COHABITATION AGREEMENT

A cohabitation agreement is a written contract between two people who live together but are not married. It outlines how you’ll handle property, expenses, debts, and more — both during the relationship and if it ends.


We help draft fair, forward-looking agreements designed to avoid legal disputes down the road.

Why Consider a Cohabitation Agreement?

This type of agreement is especially helpful when:

  • One partner owns the home
  • You’re contributing to shared expenses unequally
  • You’re combining finances or buying property together
  • There are children from a prior relationship
  • You want to avoid costly disputes if the relationship ends



We help clarify expectations upfront so that both parties feel protected and understood.

What Can a Cohabitation Agreement Cover?

  • Property ownership and division
  • Contributions to rent, mortgage, or bills
  • Responsibility for shared or separate debts
  • How bank accounts or assets will be handled
  • Buyouts or move-out rights if the relationship ends
  • Rules about pets, cars, or jointly owned items



Note: Custody and child support cannot be predetermined in a cohabitation agreement.

How It Differs from a Prenup

Prenuptial agreements are only valid if the couple marries. Cohabitation agreements are for couples who choose not to marry or are not yet married.


We can help you decide which agreement is appropriate for your situation and ensure that it complies with Ohio contract law.

Who We Help

We represent:

  • Unmarried couples moving in together
  • Individuals protecting their financial interests before cohabitation
  • Clients who have lived with a partner for years and want legal clarity
  • Parents helping a child secure an agreement before moving in with a partner

OUR APPROACH

  • We draft clear, customized contracts that reflect your reality
  • We make sure both parties fully understand the terms
  • We review or revise agreements when circumstances change
  • We offer a respectful, solutions-focused process to minimize conflict

FAQs

  • What is a cohabitation agreement in Ohio?

    A cohabitation agreement is a legal contract between two unmarried people who live together. It outlines how property, finances, and responsibilities will be handled during the relationship and if it ends.

  • Can a cohabitation agreement protect my house or assets?

    Yes. It can clarify ownership of the home, outline how mortgage or rent is paid, and define what happens if one partner moves out or the relationship ends.

  • Are cohabitation agreements enforceable in Ohio?

    Yes, if they are properly drafted and signed, they are enforceable under Ohio contract law. We ensure your agreement meets those standards.

  • What if we’re already living together? Is it too late?

    No. You can draft a cohabitation agreement at any time during the relationship, whether you’ve lived together for a week or several years.

  • Can we include custody or support terms in our agreement?

    No. Custody and child support must be handled separately through Ohio’s family courts based on the child’s best interests.

Have any more questions?

I WILL GIVE YOU HONEST ADVICE.

We don’t sugarcoat the truth — we give clear, honest advice.

I WILL PROVIDE YOU WITH CLEAR PRICING.

We explain costs upfront so there are no financial surprises.

I WILL LISTEN TO YOU FIRST.

We listen first, then guide you through your legal options.

TOGETHER, WE'LL FOCUS ON YOUR FUTURE.

We focus on practical outcomes that position you for a stronger future.