What are the legal rights of an unmarried couple?

In California, the legal rights of an unmarried couple depend on the type and nature of their relationship. Generally speaking, no special legal rights are extended to unmarried couples, as the state does not recognize any form of common law marriage. However, if a couple has a life partnership, they may be able to enter into a contract that will give them some of the same rights as married couples. This might include decisions around joint property, division of assets in the event of a separation, and any contributions made to each other’s debt. Unmarried couples in California are also entitled to some protection under the state’s domestic violence laws. This might include protection from physical, emotional, economic, or sexual abuse. Unmarried couples can also access family or relationship counseling, same-sex relationship support, or other forms of help. Unmarried couples may also be able to get healthcare coverage together, access shared bank accounts, and even establish legal guardianship for their children. Finally, unmarried couples may be able to get some of the same benefits as married couples when it comes to taxes, such as filing jointly and taking advantage of certain deductions. However, any financial benefits should be discussed with a qualified tax professional.

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What are the legal rights of an unmarried couple?

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