Services
Cohabitation Agreement Lawyer Ottawa
Legal matters involving cohabitation agreements can feel overwhelming—especially when they affect your family, finances, or future. At Walker Legal Professional Corporation, our Cohabitation Agreement Lawyer in Ottawa focuses on clear communication, personalized legal strategies, and practical guidance so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Our approach is straightforward, respectful, and centered on what matters most to you.
Speak With a Cohabitation Agreement Lawyer in Ottawa
Our Process
Initial consultation to discuss your relationship, intentions, and key priorities
Financial disclosure gathering including assets, debts, income, pensions, and other financial interests
Drafting a clear, customized agreement or domestic contract tailored to your situation
Review and negotiation between parties, with independent legal advice encouraged for both partners
Finalizing and signing the agreement, with guidance on how it affects separation, property division, and spousal support
Ongoing assistance with enforcement, modification, or related separation agreements if circumstances change
Our Services
Drafting customized cohabitation agreements and domestic contracts
Reviewing and negotiating existing cohabitation agreements, marriage contracts, and prenuptial agreements
Providing independent legal advice and legal representation to common law partners and married parties
Assisting with financial disclosure and documentation for fair property division and spousal support planning
Creating separation agreements and advising on child support and child custody provisions
Advising on protection of assets, pensions, income, and debts in common law relationships
Representation in mediation, negotiation, or court proceedings when disputes arise
Why Choose Walker Legal Professional Corporation
At Walker Legal Professional Corporation, we challenge obstacles with what matters most to you. We pledge high standards of legal services and a personalized, client-focused approach. George Walker and our team take the time to understand your priorities and create customized agreements that protect your financial interests and future security. We provide proven results and trusted guidance through family law matters—whether negotiation, mediation, or litigation—supporting clients every step of the way.
Service Areas
Ottawa
Surrounding Ottawa-area communities
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What our clients are saying
Working with George was easy & fast. George was very responsive and kind. He offered valuable advice & expertise. It was easy to navigate his website & he was quick to respond to my inquiry. I would highly recommend working with George and his team.
Erin Fast
Walker legal was able to help me with my custody agreement. George was responsive and explained things well. Everything was completed within months of meeting George.
Matt B
Jennifer W
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cohabitation agreement under Ontario law?
A cohabitation agreement is a written contract between two individuals who live together or intend to live together in a common law relationship. Under Ontario family law, it is one of several domestic contracts used to set out each party’s rights and obligations regarding property, debts, spousal support, and other financial interests if separation or another event arises. A cohabitation agreement provides clarity, certainty, and protection for many couples who choose not to marry.
Who qualifies for a cohabitation agreement in Ottawa?
Any two individuals who are partners and intend to live together may enter into a cohabitation agreement in Ontario. This includes common law partners, couples already living together, and parties who plan to cohabit before marriage. The agreement can be signed before or during cohabitation and tailored to the parties’ intentions and future plans.
What rights and obligations can a cohabitation agreement cover?
A cohabitation agreement can address property division, ownership of assets, responsibility for debts, spousal support, allocation of income and pensions, and other financial issues. It may also include provisions related to child support or child custody, although courts retain authority to decide matters involving children based on their best interests.
How does a cohabitation agreement differ from a marriage contract or prenuptial agreement?
A marriage contract or prenuptial agreement applies to spouses who are married or about to marry. A cohabitation agreement applies to partners in a common law relationship. All are domestic contracts under Ontario law, but each serves a different purpose depending on marital status. A cohabitation agreement may later be converted into a marriage contract if the parties marry.
Do I need independent legal advice for a cohabitation agreement?
Yes. Independent legal advice is strongly recommended and often critical to enforceability. Each party should receive independent legal guidance from their own lawyer to understand the agreement, its consequences, and whether financial disclosure is complete. Courts look more favourably on agreements where both partners had independent legal advice before signing.
How long does the process usually take?
The process depends on complexity. A straightforward customized agreement with complete financial disclosure can often be drafted and finalized within a few weeks. Matters involving negotiation, significant assets, pensions, or income considerations may take longer.
What common mistakes should be avoided?
Common mistakes include incomplete financial disclosure, failing to seek legal advice, using generic templates, rushing the signing process, and not fully discussing future responsibilities. These issues can lead to conflict, challenges to the agreement, or uncertainty later.
Can a cohabitation agreement be changed or enforced later?
Yes. Parties can modify a cohabitation agreement by mutual written consent. Courts may enforce the agreement as a binding contract, or in limited cases set it aside if there was unfairness, lack of disclosure, or no independent legal advice. Proper drafting and negotiation reduce the risk of disputes.
How much does a cohabitation agreement lawyer cost in Ottawa?
Costs vary based on complexity, the level of negotiation required, and whether both parties obtain independent legal advice. After an initial consultation, our firm provides a clear estimate and works to keep the agreement process efficient and cost-effective for clients.
What documents should I bring to a consultation?
Bring identification, details of your relationship, lists of assets and debts, bank statements, tax returns, pension information, and any existing separation agreements or contracts. These documents support accurate financial disclosure and allow your lawyer to draft a fair agreement.
How does a cohabitation agreement affect children, property, or finances?
A cohabitation agreement helps partners protect their interests by clarifying property division, spousal support, and financial responsibilities. While it may include child-related provisions, courts can override private agreements where necessary to protect children’s best interests. Clear planning helps safeguard financial security and future stability.
Resolve Your Legal Challenges
Legal matters, whether in family or employment law, can be stressful and time-sensitive. Our Ottawa lawyer specialize in providing focused, practical solutions designed to protect your rights and achieve effective outcomes.
By booking an appointment with our team, you take a concrete step toward resolving disputes, understanding your options, and safeguarding your future. We handle each case with precision and care, ensuring your unique situation is fully addressed. Don’t wait—secure your appointment today and move forward with confidence knowing experienced legal support is on your side.