In Washington State, “common law marriage” does not exist. However, Washington courts do recognize “committed intimate relationships.” These relationships were formerly known as “meretricious relationships” and exist when an unmarried couple lives together for a significant period of time. In Washington State, these relationships have property rights similar to those had by married couples. It is critical that you know and understand the implications of living with an intimate partner in Washington so you can plan accordingly. Cohabitation laws apply to all couples meeting legal requirements for committed intimate relationships, including both opposite-sex and same-sex couples.
How does the court determine a Committed Intimate Relationship (CIR)?
There is not a specific set of criteria or a distinct formula used to determine if a relationship constitutes a committed intimate relationship. The courts use a number of different factors when making this determination. Some of these factors (among others) may include:
- How long was the relationship?
- Was cohabitation continuous?
- What was the purpose of the relationship and the intentions of the parties involved?
- Did you hold yourself out as a couple?
- Was this an exclusive relationship?
- Were you registered domestic partners?
- Did you pool resources / Did you buy property together?
- Were you on each other’s bank accounts or credit cards?
- Were you names in each other’s wills?
Each case is evaluated individually, but generally a couple needs to have lived together for a minimum of 2-3 years and presented/held themselves out to be in a committed intimate relationship.
Rights in Committed Intimate Relationships:
When an unmarried cohabitating couple separates, if their relationship constitutes a committed intimate relationship as determined by the courts, their rights and responsibilities are similar to those of married couples. If a couple cannot negotiate and come to an agreement on their own, the court may need to get involved in making determinations.
The common most common issues that arise include:
- Determining division of debts and liabilities
- Determining property ownership rights and division of assets
- Courts will evaluate the interest of each party and determine an equitable distribution.
- Determining child custody and child support
- Parents have a legal responsibility to care for their children regardless of marital status. The court aims to determine custody and child support in the best interest of the children.
Generally, property acquired during the committed intimate relationship is presumed to be owned jointly by both parties. This will be divided in a way that is fair and equitable as determined by the court. The separate property of the parties is not subject to division.
Some of the significant differences between rights in a committed intimate relationships vs. a marriage include:
- Couples do not receive the same tax benefits as married couples
- There is no spousal support and no duty of maintenance when a couple separates. The court will get involved with the division of assets and liabilities only. The only exception to this is if a couple has a valid written contract in place that provides for support or maintenance.
- Attorney fees cannot be awarded in these cases. Each individual will have to pay their own fees. Awarding attorney fees is limited to married couples RCW 26.09.140
What Can I Do?
If you are considering moving in with an intimate partner or currently live with a partner, and were unaware of the Washington law on committed intimate relationships, you may be wondering what you can or should do with this information. A common option and best way to make sure that you and your partner dictate the terms of what will happen if your relationship and cohabitation are to end is to enter into a cohabitation agreement either at the onset of moving in or even after you already have. You can set forth how property will be divided and protect yourself from allowing a partner to gain a share of your property in the event of a break-up. Many couples prefer to allow their own decisions in advance to set the terms of cohabitation rather than a court, should the relationship end. Cohabitation agreements protect both parties and serve as insurance in the event that things are not on good terms or when there are questions at the end of a relationship when emotions often run high.
Involve Legal Representation:
Whether you are entering into, are in the midst of, or are facing the end of a committed intimate relationship, we are here to help. Our experienced family law attorneys will help you navigate this complicated and emotional process objectively.Dellino Law Group has the expertise, knowledge, and compassion to assist you effectively and collaboratively as you enter the next phase of your life. Contact us today by filling out our quick online form, or give us a call at 206-659-6839 to let us know how we can help.
