Does Washington State Recognize Common Law Marriage?

Does Washington State Recognize Common Law Marriage?

If you and your partner reside in Washington state and are unmarried, you each might qualify for the legal protections availed to you by law by classifying your relationship as a committed intimate relationship.

How Does Estate Planning Work for Committed Intimate Relationships?

How Does Estate Planning Work for Committed Intimate Relationships?

Washington state’s laws on non-marital relationships, including committed intimate relationships (CIRs), can be convoluted, especially in the absence of a cohabitation agreement. Given the ambiguity that exists for unmarried partners in Washington state, thinking about the future and what it could look like is more important than ever. This is especially true in terms of aging, incapacity, and death. Fortunately, you can address each of these issues in a comprehensive estate plan.