Cohabitation Agreements and Marriage Contracts are an important and under-utilized planning tool. Many people avoid them because they fear that even bringing up the topic will harm their relationship.

Exploring what will happen upon separation or death in a supportive respectful process such as Mediation or Collaborative Practice can help a couple talk about their finances, their goals, and their fears in a way that sets their relationship up for success and ultimately creates an agreement that supports the success of their relationship while still having a plan in place in the event of a separation. 

Watch and listen as Collaborative Practice and Mediation expert, Deborah Graham explain the difference in the law around separation or death for common law couples and married couples. She will also explore the various issues that couples should consider when moving in together.