Chicago Domestic Partnership Agreement Attorneys
Today, many couples are choosing alternatives to marriage. Many couples decide to live together, sometimes for many years, without entering into a formal marriage contract. In many states, Illinois included, same-sex couples who wish to share a life together must do so without the legal protections afforded by marriage.
Illinois law does not provide the same rights to non-married couples that it provides to those who are married. This is true no matter how long you and your partner have been together or what type of relationship you share. An Illinois domestic partnership agreement is one way to help protect yourself and your loved one when you cannot or do not wish to marry. While a domestic partnership agreement is not equal to a marriage contract, it can provide many of the same protections granted by marriage or by a pre-nuptial agreement.
Although a domestic partnership agreement can address any issue you and your partner find important, most are designed to protect you and your partner in the case of complicated life issues. A domestic partnership agreement may specify you and your partner’s legal rights and obligations concerning shared property, businesses, bank accounts and other assets; who has power of attorney for whom and in what situations; how you will handle issues related to child custody and adoption; how your estate will be handled when one or both of you pass on; and how you will dissolve your domestic partnership should you ever wish to separate.
Illinois adoption law makes it possible for a co-parent to adopt a partner’s child, even if that child has reached adulthood. It also allows for the non-parent partner to adopt a partner’s child in case a child’s birth parent dies or is incapacitated. You may wish to consider pursuing these adoption options instead of or in addition to addressing child custody and adoption in your domestic partnership agreement.
When an unmarried couple decides to live together, including a cohabitation agreement in your domestic partnership agreement is a wise step. A cohabitation agreement specifically focuses on what will happen if you and your partner ever decide to go your separate ways. It covers issues such as how you will handle the family home, furniture and other assets and who will be responsible for child custody and child care. Since Illinois law does not provide a system for unmarried couples to handle these issues in court, a domestic partnership agreement is a smart way to protect yourself and your partner in the event of a breakup.
Preventing legal problems is essential in any situation. In a domestic partnership, anticipating and planning early for possible legal challenges can save you and your partner time, money, and heartache down the road. It can also strengthen your relationship and alleviate stress in times of emergency or crisis. Using a domestic partnership agreement to protect yourself, your partner, and your children is not only a smart business move, but an act of love and affirmation of your relationship.
The Chicago family law attorneys at Nottage and Ward have over twenty years of experience in family law, including domestic partnership agreements. Schedule an initial consultation today to learn how to put our knowledge and skills to work for you.
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