Family Law FAQ: What is a domestic partnership agreement?

A domestic partnership agreement, also known as a cohabitation agreement, is a written agreement between unmarried partners that provides many of the same legal safeguards of a marital relationship. For example, the agreement can be used to determine property and support rights upon the death of one party or the termination of the relationship. A cohabitation agreement can cover anything from property rights and debt to child care and support. It provides vital protection for same-sex couples, or unmarried heterosexual couples living together long term, and can help avoid unintended results in the event of death and costly civil litigation upon breakdown in the relationship.