More couples today are choosing to live together without getting married, but many don’t realize that Washington law treats unmarried partners differently than married spouses. Unlike married couples, cohabiting partners do not automatically receive legal protections regarding property division, financial support, or inheritance. However, Washington courts recognize Committed Intimate Relationships (CIRs), which may provide some legal rights when a relationship ends.

If you’re in a long-term, marriage-like relationship but are not legally married, it’s important to understand what CIRs are, how they impact property division, and how to protect your interests.

What Is a Committed Intimate Relationship (CIR)?

A Committed Intimate Relationship (CIR) is a long-term, marriage-like relationship between two unmarried individuals. While Washington does not have common-law marriage, courts may recognize CIRs to ensure fair property division when an unmarried couple separates.

Courts evaluate several factors to determine whether a relationship qualifies as a CIR, including the length of the relationship, whether the couple lived together continuously, whether they shared financial responsibilities, and whether they presented themselves as a committed partnership. A strong CIR case often includes evidence of joint property ownership, shared bank accounts, and financial interdependence. No single factor is decisive, but the overall nature of the relationship will determine whether a CIR exists.

Property Division in a CIR

One of the most significant legal benefits of CIR recognition is equitable property division. In a CIR, courts may divide jointly acquired assets fairly, just as they would in a divorce. However, unlike married couples, CIR partners do not have automatic legal claims to each other’s property.

If a CIR is established, the court may divide real estate purchased during the relationship, joint bank accounts, shared businesses, and valuable assets that were acquired together. However, separate property—such as assets acquired before the relationship, personal inheritances, or gifts—generally remains with the original owner. If one partner contributed significantly to an asset owned by the other, such as making mortgage payments on a house titled to only one partner, they may have a legal claim to compensation.

What CIRs Do Not Cover

Although CIRs offer some legal protections, they do not provide the same rights as marriage. Unlike married couples, CIR partners cannot automatically inherit each other’s assets without a will or estate plan, receive spousal support after separation, claim retirement benefits or pensions unless specifically designated as a beneficiary, or have automatic rights to make medical decisions for each other unless legally authorized. Because of these limitations, unmarried couples in long-term relationships should consider legal planning tools such as cohabitation agreements, estate planning, and beneficiary designations to protect their interests.

How to Protect Your Rights in a CIR

If you are in a committed relationship but are not legally married, taking proactive legal steps can help prevent future disputes. A cohabitation agreement is one of the most effective ways to protect both partners by clearly outlining property ownership, financial responsibilities, and asset division in the event of separation. If a couple purchases property together, ensuring both names are on deeds or titles can prevent future disputes. Estate planning is also essential, as unmarried partners do not automatically inherit each other’s assets. Creating a will, establishing power of attorney, and updating beneficiary designations can provide essential legal protections. Keeping records of shared expenses, mortgage payments, and financial contributions can also help support claims to property division in court.

Consult a Family Law Attorney

Navigating the legal complexities of CIRs can be challenging, and misunderstandings can lead to financial losses or legal disputes. If you are in a committed relationship and want to protect your rights, consulting with an experienced family law attorney can help. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we assist unmarried couples with cohabitation agreements, property rights, and estate planning to ensure their interests are secure. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your future.