Unmarried couples also face certain legal problems.
It is essential to consult an experienced attorney to better understand these issues.
The following are some of these issues to be aware of:
● Problems with children
Unmarried couples who have children together and then decide to separate face problems very similar to those of couples who get divorced.
Legal issues related to child care, such as custody, parenting time, financial support, health insurance, and payments for uninsured medical expenses, must be considered. In addition, waivers of dependency benefits, participation in extracurricular activities, and relocation must also be considered.
The legal process when it comes to matters involving children remains largely the same, regardless of the marital status of their parents.
In marriage, couples are required to resolve all conflicts before divorce, while unmarried couples may separate without resolving any issues.
● Property issues
In case of divorce, married couples have property division rights that the court confirms. While unmarried couples are not legally entitled to such rights.
Unmarried couples must create a legally binding contract that details their property and financial obligations. This cohabitation agreement is similar to a prenuptial agreement that couples sign before marriage.
When protecting your rights and interests, seeking legal advice can ensure that all your needs are met.
● Succession issues
Kentucky inheritance laws distinguish between married and unmarried couples, granting clear rights to the former but no legal protection for the latter.
That is the reason why estate planning for unmarried couples is critical and should not be overlooked. It is imperative that individuals engage in estate planning with a suitably qualified attorney. This should include creating your wills, living wills, and powers of attorney (for medical and financial decisions).
Doing this ensures that the interests of each party are respected and can help avoid potential legal complications.
