In Quebec, one out of every three couples lives together without being married. But many of these couples mistakenly think they enjoy the same protections as married couples. Here are articles explaining the ins and outs of common-law relationships, what happens when these couples separate and how they can protect themselves.

These articles only apply to unmarried couples, often called “common-law” couples. To learn more about married couples, see our Editor’s Picks file Separation and Divorce: The Legal Impact of a Breakup.

What Happens After Separation

What you should know about how the law treats common-law couples.

Content under review

Common-Law Couples: Making a Life Together Without Being Married

Content under review

Separation of Common-Law Couples: The Court Process: Main Steps

Content under review

When Common-Law Couples Separate: Which Court Decides the Details?

How Common-Law Couples Can Protect Themselves

Are you sure that you want to quit?

The audio player will be closed when you change page.

Quit