Cohabitation Agreement: Why You Need a Notary Public for a Valid Contract

Living together as a couple can be a big step towards building a life together. However, cohabitation comes with its own set of challenges. One of the most common problems cohabiting couples face is the lack of legal protection. Unlike married couples, cohabiting couples do not have the same legal rights, which can lead to legal disputes in case of separation or death of one partner.

To avoid any unwanted legal complications, or in case you are planning to move in with your partner, it is recommended to create a cohabitation agreement. A cohabitation agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of living together as a couple. It covers issues such as property rights, division of assets, support obligations, and more.

However, for a cohabitation agreement to be valid, it needs to be notarized. A notary public is a public official who is authorized to witness and certify the signing of legal documents. Having a notary public present during the signing of a cohabitation agreement makes the document legally binding.

Here are some of the reasons why you need a notary public for a valid cohabitation agreement:

1. Legal Validity: A notarized cohabitation agreement is a legally binding document. This means that it can be enforced in court if necessary, giving you legal protection in case of a dispute.

2. Uncontested Agreement: By having a notary public present during the signing of the cohabitation agreement, it is ensured that both parties voluntarily agreed to the terms of the agreement. This lessens the likelihood of the agreement being challenged or contested later on.

3. Public Records: A notary public keeps a record of the signed cohabitation agreement. This record can be used as evidence in case of a dispute, making it easier for the court to determine the validity of the agreement.

In conclusion, a cohabitation agreement is a necessary legal document for cohabiting couples. It provides legal protection and avoids any future legal complications. However, to ensure that the cohabitation agreement is valid, it needs to be notarized by a notary public. By having a notary public present during the signing of the cohabitation agreement, you can ensure that you have a legally binding document that provides you with legal protection.