In Quebec, many couples live together without being married and without being in a civil or parental union. This is called a common-law relationship or “de facto union” in Quebec. These couples sometimes 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.
Important!
These articles only apply to 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.
Separation of Common-Law Couples: The Court Process
Division of Property
How Common-Law Couples Can Protect Themselves
Legal documents these couples can use to avoid unpleasant surprises.
