What is a Common-Law Relationship?

A common law relationship is a relationship is which a couple lives together but are not legally married to each other. The couple must live together in a ‘marriage-like’ relationship to be considered common law.

What Are My Rights And Responsibilities In A Common-Law Relationship?

A common-law relationship gives each of the partners certain rights and responsibilities in respect of support for one another, and for the children of either or both of the parties. Custody and access to children, and child support, may be decided by a judge. Child support is generally based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines.

If you have been involved in a common-law relationship of at least three years, or have a child together with your partner, you may be required to pay or entitled to receive “spousal support.” Know and understand your rights and obligations by contacting your lawyer.

Are you in a common-law dispute?
Do you need to speak with a lawyer about your common-law relationship?

Contact Ahlstrom Wright for more information about this and other areas of Family Law.

Property Division & Debt In A Common-Law Relationship

Determining an equitable division of property and debts can become quite complicated. Our courts have determined that the legislation that applies to married couples does not automatically apply to common-law relationships. Often, common-law couples are forced to go to court to protect their rights.

Some of your rights and responsibilities are set out in provincial and federal laws. Many, however, are contained in the caselaw that has been developed over the years.

These issues can be contentious and complicated. Your lawyer at Ahlstrom Wright will explain your rights and obligations, and assist you in reaching a fair and equitable settlement agreement, and/or represent you in court.