Family Matters. Experience Counts.
Today, many couples share homes, finances, and futures without choosing to marry. While love may not require a license, the law often does.
At Cooper Family Law, we help unmarried partners in Philadelphia navigate the legal complexities of shared life through comprehensive, legally enforceable cohabitation agreements.
A cohabitation agreement is a legal document that defines the rights and responsibilities of two people living together in a romantic relationship without being married. It can cover:
Division of property and assets
Shared expenses and debts
Real estate ownership
Inheritance intentions
Separation terms and dispute resolution
Without a legal agreement, Pennsylvania law does not automatically provide unmarried partners the same rights as married couples. That’s where an experienced cohabitation lawyer becomes essential.
While it may feel awkward to “contract” love, clear agreements can prevent major legal and financial issues in the event of:
A breakup
A partner’s death
Buying or selling a shared home
One partner is making major financial contributions
Our cohabitation agreement attorneys in Philadelphia approach these matters with discretion, compassion, and thorough legal insight.
| Category | Details Addressed |
|---|---|
| Property Ownership | How to divide jointly purchased or co-owned assets |
| Financial Contributions | Who pays for what: rent, mortgage, utilities, debts |
| Dispute Resolution | Methods for resolving disagreements, including mediation |
| Wills & Inheritance | Estate planning wishes if one partner dies |
| Custody & Support (if applicable) | Outline expectations for children or shared parenting arrangements (may require separate documentation) |
Every relationship is different. That’s why our cohabitation agreement lawyers tailor each contract to the unique goals and dynamics of our clients.
These agreements are particularly useful for:
Couples who own property together
Partners entering a second relationship or blended family
Individuals supporting their partner financially
LGBTQ+ couples choosing not to marry
Regardless of income or relationship history, every unmarried couple benefits from legal clarity.
Yes, if it’s properly drafted, signed, and not entered under duress.
Yes. Agreements can be updated to reflect life changes like buying property or having children.
In the absence of legal documentation, courts typically treat each party as a legal stranger, which can lead to significant issues with asset division and rights.
While it’s not required, it’s strongly recommended to ensure fairness and reduce the risk of future disputes.
Use the button below to book your consultation easily online.
Our firm brings deep experience in family law and a modern understanding of how relationships evolve.
We help clients create balanced, enforceable agreements reflecting their emotional and financial commitments. Our cohabitation lawyers combine legal diligence with personal empathy, ensuring you’re protected today and tomorrow.
With 50+ years of combined experience, we handle a range of family law matters with effective, trusted solutions.
We craft tailored legal strategies to address your family’s unique needs and ensure the best possible outcome.
We provide guidance and support throughout your case, helping you navigate emotional and legal challenges.
Proudly serving Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, and Delaware Counties with trustworthy family law solutions.
Use the button below to book your consultation easily online.
The best way to understand how Cooper Family Law can support you is by hearing directly from those we’ve helped. Our clients consistently praise our attentive service, thoughtful legal guidance, and successful outcomes. Read through our client testimonials to see why families across the Philadelphia region trust us with their most important legal matters.
Legal clarity shouldn’t come at the expense of your relationship. Our team guides couples through this process with patience, respect, and discretion. We’re here to support your shared goals while safeguarding your individual interests.
Our process is designed to make things clear, respectful, and efficient. From your initial consultation to the completion of your cohabitation agreement, we follow a series of carefully structured steps that help protect your interests and preserve your relationship’s harmony.
We begin with a thorough consultation to understand your needs and determine the best legal strategy for your case. During this time, we listen to your concerns and explain your options clearly.
After assessing the complexity of your case, we’ll outline the retainer amount. The retainer is used to cover initial legal services, and we ensure that every dollar is applied transparently to your case as work progresses.
We craft a strategy focused on your specific goals, whether that’s a peaceful resolution or preparing for litigation. Our attorneys handle every detail with care and precision, from negotiations to court appearances.
Throughout the process, we maintain open lines of communication, keeping you updated and addressing any concerns promptly. You can rely on us for legal guidance at every stage.
Ready to formalize your partnership with clarity and care? Click below to consult with a cohabitation law firm you can trust.
1500 John F Kennedy Blvd # 220
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Attorney Advertising Materials: Patrick J. Cooper is responsible for the content of this website. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Each case is unique. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Website Accessibility: Cooper Family Law, LLC is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities. We are continually working to improve the accessibility of all content on our website and applying the relevant accessibility standards.
