Family > Prenup & Cohabitation Agreement

Prenup & Cohabitation Agreement

Relationships are built on trust, but planning ahead can provide clarity and peace of mind. Prenuptial agreements (“prenups”) and cohabitation agreements are legal contracts that outline financial rights and responsibilities between partners. At GBC Law, we draft clear, enforceable agreements tailored to your circumstances.

Why Consider a Prenup, Cohabitation Agreement?

These agreements can:  
Protect assets like real estate, investment or business interest  

Clarify how debts will be handled 

Outline what happens to property if the relationship ends  
Determine entitlement to spousal support if the relationship ends
Reduce conflict and uncertainty in the future  

Key Elements of an Agreement

Our team brings legal and practical experience to each scenario, helping clients protect their interests while minimizing conflict.

Division of property

Who keeps what if the relationship ends

Asset/Debt responsibility

How shared or personal assets and debts are handled  

Spousal support

Whether support will be paid, how much and for how long

Inheritance, gifts and family assets

Protecting inheritance, gifts and family property across generations  

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I still enter into an agreement with my spouse after marriage?
    Even after you’re married, you can sign what’s called a marriage agreement. It works much like a prenup and sets out how property, debt, and support will be handled if the relationship ends.
    Are there matters that cannot be agreed upon in a contract?
    You can’t make binding decisions about parenting arrangements or child support in advance, since those must always be in the child’s best interests at the time of separation. Courts also won’t enforce terms that are extremely unfair or contrary to law.
    What happens if we separate without an agreement in place?
    If there’s no prenup or cohabitation agreement, the provisions of BC’s Family Law Act applies. This usually means family property and family debt are divided equally, regardless of who paid for what or whose name is on title.
    Can we draft an agreement ourselves without a lawyer?
    You can, but it’s risky. Courts may not uphold an agreement if it wasn’t fair, transparent, or if both partners didn’t get independent legal advice. A lawyer ensures the agreement is enforceable and protects your interests.