Seattle Attorneys for Committed Intimate Relationship Claims
In Washington State, unmarried couples may still have legal rights when a long-term relationship ends. Courts recognize certain marriage-like relationships as a Committed Intimate Relationship (CIR), which can impact property division and financial claims.
At DuBois Levias Law Group, our Seattle family law attorneys help clients navigate committed intimate relationship disputes throughout Washington State.
What Is a Committed Intimate Relationship?
Washington courts define a CIR as a stable, marriage-like relationship where two people live together knowing they are not legally married. If a CIR exists, the court may divide property acquired during the relationship in a fair and equitable manner.
How Do Courts Determine Whether a CIR Exists?
Courts evaluate several factors, including:
- Continuous cohabitation
- Length of the relationship
- Purpose of the relationship
- Shared finances or resources
- Intent of the parties
Courts may also consider whether the couple presented themselves publicly as a long-term partnership or family unit.
Property Division in a CIR Case
When a CIR is established, assets acquired during the relationship may be subject to equitable division. These cases often involve disputes over:
- Real estate and shared homes
- Bank and investment accounts
- Retirement assets
- Business interests
- Shared debts and expenses
Because CIR claims are highly fact-specific, experienced legal guidance is important.
Protecting Your Assets
In Washington State, couples in CIRs could have their property divided as though it were community property. The law does treat a CIR slightly differently from a marriage, however. Try to seek legal counsel before you terminate a long-term relationship to protect what you acquired together over the course of your cohabitation.
Considering Your Kids
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 a child’s life regardless of whether or not the parents have entered into a formal relationship.
At DuBois Levias Law Group, our attorneys have extensive experience helping clients pursue fair financial outcomes in committed intimate relationship cases.
