Cohabitation Agreements
A Cohabitation Agreement That Protects Your Future — Cohabitation Agreement Toronto
Moving in together is a meaningful step-and having legal clarity can protect both partners if life changes unexpectedly. We help you create compassionate, fair, and forward-thinking cohabitation agreements that safeguard your financial stability, outline expectations, and reduce the risk of future conflict. Clarity today builds security tomorrow.
WHAT WE DO
Rights of Common-Law Partners in Ontario
A cohabitation agreement isn’t about mistrust-it’s about protection, fairness, and preventing future misunderstandings. We guide couples through the process with sensitivity and clarity, ensuring both parties’ voices are heard. Our goal is to help you make informed, mutually respectful decisions that protect your home, your finances, and your long-term peace of mind.
WAYS WE SUPPORT YOU
What Your Agreement Should Include
Why Choose Us
Guidance That Blends Legal Precision With Compassion and Respect
At Smithen Family Law, we approach cohabitation agreements with sensitivity, fairness, and clarity. We understand that legal planning can feel uncomfortable, especially when emotions and long-term hopes are involved.
Our process ensures both partners feel supported and empowered, not pressured or judged. We provide strategic, balanced guidance that protects your rights, strengthens communication, and reduces the chance of future conflict. Our priority is helping you build a secure foundation for your life together-one grounded in mutual respect and long-term stability.
Stories of Strength
What Our Clients Say
The most meaningful measure of our work is the lives rebuilt along the way. These stories reflect courage, trust, and the quiet victories that matter most when navigating family law and personal transformation.
She Worked Hard and Stayed With Me Through Everything
K. Smithen was attentive, professional, and dedicated throughout my case. She listened, answered all my questions, and fought for the best interests of me and my child. Her compassion and hard work made a difficult process easier. I strongly recommend her.
M.O.
Her Guidance Helped Me Feel Protected and Supported
Ms Smithen is professional and cares for her clients. I was able to focus in my situation and rely all the legal stuff to her. Due to her knowledge, I was able to secure a home for my kids. She offers good advice and makes sure the job gets done. Her rates are fair and the quality of her job is excellent. She is prompt to respond even on weekends or evenings. During the worst time of my life I felt protected and care for. Without her I would have been a mess. She is strong communicator and when in court she has a great presence and makes you feel comfortable in an unfamiliar environment. When sick you call a doctor. With a divorce you want her representing you.
L.K.
Her Team Supported Me Through Every Step With Grace.
Kathryn listened carefully to my situation and made me feel safe and supported. She and her team worked diligently, guided me with grace, and helped me stay focused during a difficult time. Her professionalism, strength, and compassion made a tremendous difference. I strongly recommend her.
WY Chan
Dedicated, Empathetic, and Truly Exceptional Representation.
Kathryn is dedicated, understanding, empathetic, and incredibly sharp. She represented me in family court with outstanding attention to detail. I felt heard, validated, and fully supported throughout the process. I am forever grateful for her hard work and commitment to my case.
MCF
Her Compassion and Integrity Helped Us Stand Again.
My divorce was extremely difficult, but Kathryn helped us land on our feet. She handled my case with exceptional compassion, professionalism, and attention to detail, protecting me and my children at every step. I am deeply grateful for her integrity and dedication. She is truly the right lawyer in hard times.
Asta Velyviene
She Helped Me Protect My Son and My Future.
Kathryn guided me through my divorce and child custody case with compassion and constant support. She kept me informed, answered every question, and helped me secure a fair agreement that protected my son’s special needs. Her judgment, creativity, and dedication made a difficult process manageable.
Paula Goncalves
Where Strength Meets Compassion
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone.
Whether you need immediate guidance or space to understand your options, we’re here to support you with clarity and compassion. Reach out, and let’s take the first step toward safety and resolution, together.
Support and Clarity
Frequently Asked Questions
Family law can feel overwhelming. This section answers the questions we hear most, offering clarity and support as you make decisions that impact your future and your family.
Can a cohabitation agreement be changed after marriage?
Yes. If common-law partners later marry, the cohabitation agreement can remain in effect or become a marriage contract. Kathryn advises clients on which approach best suits their situation.
Do common-law partners need a cohabitation agreement in Ontario?
Common-law partners do not have the same automatic property rights as married couples. Without a cohabitation agreement, separating common-law partners may face significant uncertainty about property division and support. A cohabitation agreement allows partners to define their rights while they are still on good terms and protects their ability to recover financially if a relationship ends.
What should a cohabitation agreement include?
A cohabitation agreement should address property ownership, financial responsibilities, division of assets upon separation, and support obligations. It can also cover inheritance rights and estate matters. Each party should receive full financial disclosure, as required by the Family Law Act, as well as independent legal advice before signing.
Your Next Step Starts Here
You Don’t Have to
Face This Alone
Whether you need immediate guidance or space to understand your options, we’re here to support you with clarity and compassion. Reach out, and let’s take the first step toward safety and resolution, together.
