Understanding Cohabitation Agreements: Your Guide to Marvin Agreements
October 23, 2024
In today’s world, more couples are choosing to live together without the legal ties of marriage. Enter the cohabitation agreement, a contractual arrangement for partners who are not married or registered as domestic partners but wish to outline their rights and responsibilities while living together. Commonly known as a Marvin agreement—named after the landmark case Marvin v. Marvin (1976)—these agreements provide legal recognition to the unique arrangements of couples who share their lives without the formalities of marriage.
What is a Cohabitation Agreement?
A cohabitation agreement can be oral or written, and it may encompass express or implied terms. It serves to delineate personal financial matters such as the payment of household expenses, income sharing, and property co-ownership. Additionally, these agreements can outline support obligations, often referred to as “palimony.” However, it's important to note that California does not recognize common law marriage, which means that simply living together does not create marital rights. If a couple enters into a common law marriage in another state, however, California must recognize it.
Practice Tip: While common law marriage isn’t recognized in California, a Marvin agreement can still be implied through the parties' conduct. This means that even without a formal written agreement, you might still pursue a civil action based on the established cohabitation terms.
Why Consider a Cohabitation Agreement?
As couples navigate shared living arrangements, a cohabitation agreement can help clarify expectations and prevent future disputes. It's especially beneficial for couples who may have different financial backgrounds or for those who want to protect their individual assets. Drafting a solid agreement not only promotes transparency but also fosters a healthier relationship dynamic.
At M.C. Law, P.C., we understand that every relationship is unique, and our experienced team is here to help you draft a cohabitation agreement tailored to your needs. By outlining your rights and responsibilities clearly, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your interests are protected.
When Co-Parenting Gets Complicated: Protecting Your Time with Your Child in Los Angeles
Many couples assume that once they are married, financial and legal concerns are set in stone. However, circumstances change, and a postnuptial agreement can help protect both spouses' interests. Learn what a postnup is, how it differs from a prenup, and whether it might be a good choice for your marriage.
Divorce laws vary from state to state, and California has some distinct rules that set it apart. If you're ending a marriage in the Golden State, it's important to be aware of how these laws might affect your case. This blog highlights four unique aspects of California divorce law that could impact your rights, assets, and future.
When child custody disputes arise, the court may appoint a Minor’s Counsel to advocate for the child’s best interests. But who has the authority to make this appointment? Learn about the key figures involved in appointing a Minor’s Counsel, the criteria for selection, and the role this attorney plays in family law cases.
Circumstances change—often in ways we never anticipated. Whether you’ve lost your job, received a significant promotion, or encountered unexpected health issues, life’s twists and turns can impact your financial stability. For many former spouses, these changes may prompt revisiting alimony arrangements. In California, modifying spousal support isn’t automatically guaranteed; it requires meeting specific legal criteria and following a structured process. At M.C. Law, P.C., in Los Angeles, we’re here to help you understand when and how adjustments to alimony payments may be appropriate, ensuring that both parties maintain a fair and balanced agreement. Recognizing Valid Grounds for Modification Not all changes in circumstances warrant a modification to spousal support. California courts typically consider requests if there has been a “material change” in either party’s financial situation—such as a substantial drop in income, a significant increase in the recipient’s earnings, or new medical expenses affecting a party’s ability to work. The burden of proof rests with the individual seeking the modification, who must demonstrate that the shift in financial standing is both legitimate and enduring. An experienced attorney can help you assess whether your situation meets the threshold for revisiting your alimony terms. Initiating the Legal Process Before you file a request with the court, reviewing your original divorce decree or settlement agreement is important. Some agreements may include specific terms outlining when and how spousal support can be modified. Assuming these options are available, you’ll need to prepare and submit a formal request for a modification to the court. This involves completing the required legal forms, attaching financial documentation, and serving the other party. At M.C. Law, P.C., we guide clients through this complex process, ensuring each step is completed accurately and fully in compliance with state requirements. Gathering Comprehensive Evidence To strengthen your case, you must provide solid evidence that your financial circumstances have changed and justify an adjustment. Relevant documentation may include recent pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, medical bills, or termination letters from an employer. The more comprehensive and organized your evidence is, the better your chances of a successful modification. Our legal team helps clients compile the strongest possible evidentiary record, saving them time, effort, and potential frustration in a challenging moment. Considering Negotiation, Mediation, or Court Action Not every modification request has to result in a court battle. In some cases, both parties may be willing to negotiate an updated arrangement on their own or through mediation, resulting in a mutually agreeable solution with fewer legal expenses and emotional strain. If these methods fail, the matter may go before a judge who will evaluate the request and render a decision. Regardless of your route, having skilled legal counsel on your side can help you effectively present your case, anticipate counterarguments, and confidently navigate the legal landscape. Adjusting alimony arrangements can feel daunting, but it may be right when your life’s circumstances shift significantly. Understanding the legal grounds, following proper procedures, and presenting compelling evidence can position yourself for the best possible outcome. The team at M.C. Law, P.C. in Los Angeles stands ready to assist you—whether you want to modify your existing support payments or defend against an unwarranted request. With professional guidance, you can ensure that your spousal support reflects the reality of your current situation while maintaining fairness for both parties involved.
January is a common time for custody disputes to arise after holiday visitation. Offer insights on how to file for modifications and what factors the court considers.
Discussing finances and future planning can be uncomfortable when it comes to marriage. Yet, as many couples discover, clear communication and thorough preparation can lay the foundation for long-lasting harmony. Prenuptial agreements—also known as “prenups”—are increasingly common tools for couples who want to clarify their rights and responsibilities before walking down the aisle. Unfortunately, misinformation often leads to misunderstandings and unnecessary anxiety. At M.C. Law, P.C., in Los Angeles, we believe in empowering clients with knowledge. Today, we’re tackling four common myths about prenuptial agreements to help you separate fact from fiction. Myth: Prenups Mean You Don’t Trust Your Partner One of the most pervasive myths is that a prenuptial agreement signals distrust or doubt. In reality, many couples who choose to draft a prenup have complete confidence in their relationship. They view the agreement as an opportunity to have honest, forward-looking conversations about finances, property rights, and future goals. Rather than indicating a lack of trust, a well-constructed prenup can foster greater understanding, open communication, and mutual respect for each other’s financial interests. Myth: Prenups Are Only for the Wealthy It’s easy to assume that prenuptial agreements are only necessary for wealthy individuals or those who own multiple properties and substantial business interests. However, couples of all income levels can benefit from clearly defining their financial landscape. Whether you’re worried about protecting a family heirloom, outlining rules for handling debt, or ensuring both parties agree on how to manage future assets, a prenup can provide peace of mind. In California, these agreements help protect both parties, regardless of the size of their bank accounts. Myth: Prenups Are “Set It and Forget It” Documents Some couples believe that once they’ve signed a prenup, it becomes an unchangeable document destined to gather dust. On the contrary, a prenuptial agreement can be revisited and amended, provided both parties agree. Life events—such as career changes, the birth of a child, or the acquisition of new assets—may warrant adjustments that keep the agreement fair and relevant. With proper legal guidance, you can ensure that your prenup evolves with your relationship, reflecting each spouse’s evolving needs and priorities. Myth: Prenups Lead to Unfair Outcomes While it’s possible to have a poorly drafted agreement that favors one partner, an ethically created prenup aims for fairness. Both parties should be represented by their own legal counsel to ensure that terms are equitable, transparent, and fully understood. California courts will not enforce agreements deemed unconscionable or signed under duress. By approaching the drafting process openly and honestly—and with the help of skilled attorneys—couples can create a prenup that protects both sides and strengthens their trust in each other’s integrity. Prenuptial agreements don’t have to carry a stigma. Rather than casting doubt on a relationship, they can serve as valuable roadmaps that guide a couple’s financial life through all of marriage’s twists and turns. At M.C. Law, P.C. in Los Angeles, we help clients navigate California’s legal landscape to create prenuptial agreements that are well-informed, fair, and adaptable. By debunking the myths and separating fact from fiction, you and your partner can enter marriage with a deeper understanding, a clearer vision, and a more confident commitment to each other’s futures.
California’s Compromise of Arrears Program (COAP) helps eligible parents reduce child support debt owed to the state by negotiating a lower payment based on financial hardship. This program offers relief while ensuring parents stay current with ongoing child support obligations.
California's new law ensures that child influencers receive financial protection by requiring parents to set aside a portion of their earnings, introducing important considerations for family law cases involving custody and asset division.
Determining paternity is a crucial step in securing parental rights, ensuring a child’s access to important benefits, and fostering healthy family relationships. In California, establishing legal fatherhood goes beyond mere DNA— it has far-reaching implications for child custody, support, and inheritance. Whether you are a mother seeking support or a man looking to protect your parental rights, navigating the process can seem overwhelming. At M.C. Law, P.C., in Los Angeles, our dedicated team guides clients through every step, providing the knowledge and advocacy they need to confirm paternity and build a stable foundation for their family’s future. Importance of Legal Paternity A legal determination of fatherhood confers numerous benefits and responsibilities. Beyond affirming a parental bond, it ensures that a child receives financial support, access to health insurance, and eligibility for benefits such as Social Security. It can also shape decisions regarding custody and visitation. Without legal paternity, fathers may face hurdles in asserting their rights, and children risk losing essential support and a meaningful relationship with their dad. M.C. Law, P.C. helps families recognize these stakes, working to ensure that every child benefits from the security and stability that comes from having legally recognized parents. Voluntary Paternity Acknowledgment The simplest path to establish paternity for unmarried parents often involves the Voluntary Declaration of Paternity. When both parents agree on the father’s identity, they can sign this legally binding document at the hospital after the child’s birth or later at an approved agency. This streamlined process saves time, avoids court involvement, and provides fathers with immediate legal rights. Still, it’s vital to understand the implications fully. M.C. Law, P.C. helps clients evaluate whether a voluntary declaration is the best route, ensuring that both parents make informed decisions aligned with their family’s future. Seeking Court Intervention to Confirm Paternity Not all paternity cases are straightforward. Sometimes, disputes arise, or one parent may be unwilling to cooperate. In these scenarios, establishing paternity typically requires court intervention. The courts can order DNA testing and evaluate evidence to determine the child’s biological father. Once confirmed, the court can issue orders covering child custody, visitation, and support. At M.C. Law, P.C., we assist clients through every aspect of this process—from filing the appropriate legal documents to representing them in hearings—so they can achieve a fair and timely resolution. Protecting Your Legal Rights and Interests  Establishing paternity is just the first step in securing a father’s involvement in a child’s life. Once recognized, fathers can seek legal custody or visitation rights and play an active role in their children’s upbringing. Additionally, confirmed paternity ensures that children benefit from paternal health information, family medical histories, and emotional support from both sides of their family tree. Our team at M.C. Law, P.C. helps clients exercise their rights, maintain their responsibilities, and uphold their child’s best interests at every turn—whether they are pursuing shared custody or advocating for balanced parenting plans. Confirming paternity is about more than biology; it’s about establishing a firm legal footing that supports a child’s emotional and financial well-being. By taking proactive steps—whether through voluntary acknowledgment or court proceedings—families can create a stable environment that honors the significance of paternal involvement. At M.C. Law, P.C., our Los Angeles-based team understands the importance of these vital legal determinations and is ready to guide families through the intricacies of California’s paternity laws. With the right support, you can ensure that fatherhood is recognized, protected, and valued for the benefit of everyone involved.