Property Division In Cohabitation and Divorce Cases

Cohabitation has become more common among modern-day couples. In some cases, this can be due to financial pressures and the opportunity to save money. On the other hand, others see moving in together as the last major commitment

before being married. For these couples, cohabitation is a test of compatibility, something like a trial marriage before the real union.

No matter the reason, cohabitation can easily lead to a couple deciding to take another step in their relationship and getting married. While these marriages join the properties of the two people involved, they do not necessarily solve the problem of what to do with property bought prior to the marriage.

If a divorce should occur, it is possible that this period of cohabitation could factor into who gets what piece of property in the split. In divorce, cohabitation can affect several types of property. Not only is real estate a point of contention, as it usually accounts for the largest sums of worth in the division process, but other properties may be either protected or lost due to cohabitation.

Vehicles, equipment, and other items can be deemed specifically one person's or may be split by the couple depending on if the court deems the period of cohabitation to have contributed to the ownership of that item. Some cases have even seen pensions divided because of a judge's ruling in which cohabitation played a major role.

If the court finds that the period in which the couple lived together saw enough in the way of shared property, it can mean that the resulting division of property is significantly more drastic than if the couple did not live together. To better understand how divorce is affected by the shared property prior to marriage, consult a divorce attorney to discuss your state's rules and legal precedents.

Family law disputes can be distressing & daunting. However, before taking on divorce, order modification, child custody, or all other important legal matters, it would be smart & helpful to get the best legal advice. Contact the office of Fizer Law, the finest Property Division Lawyer in Long Beach, at 1~562~270~9944.