Clear Agreements For Couples Who Share A Life
Couples who live together without marrying still share homes, accounts, pets and sometimes children. We help partners put their understanding in writing: who owns what, how bills are split, and what happens if the relationship ends or one partner becomes ill.
These conversations are easier with a neutral structure. We give both partners the same checklist, explain the Georgia rules that apply, and draft an agreement each can review with independent counsel. Nothing is signed until both partners say they understand each term.
How We Approach It
We meet with the couple together for the first conversation, then work through a written questionnaire. Drafts are shared with both partners at the same time, and each partner is encouraged to have the agreement checked by a separate lawyer.
When To Call Us
Good moments are before buying property together, before one partner moves into a home the other owns, or when a child joins the family. If a partnership is already ending, call early so assets can be listed before they are moved.
We also update older agreements when careers, incomes or health change. A short review every few years keeps the document matched to the life you actually share.
Georgia does not treat unmarried partners the way it treats spouses, so many protections that married couples take for granted only exist if they are written down. Without an agreement, a partner who paid half the mortgage may have no clear claim to the home, and a partner in hospital may find the other has no say in medical decisions. We explain those gaps in plain words, show which documents close them, and help both partners decide what fits their household. Most couples finish the process feeling closer, not further apart, because the hard questions are answered calmly and early.
What The Work Covers
- 1. Cohabitation and property agreements
- 2. Shared home ownership terms
- 3. Health care and financial powers of attorney
- 4. Parenting arrangements for unmarried parents
- 5. Separation of shared accounts and property
- 6. Periodic agreement updates
Typical Fees
Illustrative only: a cohabitation agreement is often quoted as a flat fee near $1,200. Separations are quoted after the first meeting, once the assets involved are clear.
Expected Timeline
Most agreements are signed within three to five weeks, allowing time for each partner’s own review. If a separation is already under way, we set a first meeting within days and list the shared property before anything is sold or moved.
To talk about your situation, call (555) 274-3190 or email hello@sterlingamos.example. Ruth Sterling or another attorney on the team will reply within one business day.
