Family Law for Unmarried Couples

Family Law for Unmarried Couples

Family Law Attorneys in Seattle and Bellevue-Redmond, Washington

The lawyers at DuBois Cary represent gay and lesbian clients who are not registered domestic partners, but who decide to terminate their relationship, as well as opposite sex couples whose relationships are ending. We also offer cohabitation agreements counsel for individuals who are unmarried but living together, or planning to live together.

Unmarried Couples and Property Division

People who live together, whether same sex or those of opposite sex, are often surprised to find out that in Washington state, a couple in a long-term, marriage-like relationship can bear many of the rights and responsibilities as a married couple. The new legal term in Washington state for cohabitation relationships is “committed intimate relationships” (formerly meretricious relationships).

In Washington state, individuals in committed intimate relationships may have their property divided as though it were community property and subject to Washington state community property laws. Whether you are the same sex as your partner or a different sex, the law may treat you as if you were married for purposes of property division and parenting plans if one of the parties moves out.

Unmarried Couples With Children

Child custody and child support laws work the same with unmarried couples as they do with their married counterparts. Washington state courts recognize the importance each parent plays in the child’s life regardless of whether the parents have entered into a formal relationship or not. Washington state courts also recognize the rights of parents who have not officially adopted a child. Our lawyers have handled many cases involving unmarried couples and are focused on protecting the rights of mothers, fathers and children. We will do everything we can to help you resolve your family law issues.

At DuBois Cary Law Group, we handle a wide range of family law issues for married and unmarried couples throughout the Seattle, Bellevue-Redmond and greater King County area. We are focused on protecting your rights and preparing you for a financially and emotionally stable future.

Contact Our Family Law Firm Today

If you have further questions or want to arrange a confidential consultation, please contact us today. We have offices in Seattle and Bellevue-Redmond and can meet with you in one or both of those locations as needed. We look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve the solutions you seek.