How does common law work in Ontario?

Common law relationships in Ontario provide specific legal rights and obligations after cohabiting for 3+ years In Ontario, common law partnerships are legally recognized relationships that differ from marriage. While common law partners don't automatically receive the same property rights as married couples, they do gain important legal protections and responsibilities. Key aspects of common law relationships in Ontario include: Spousal support rights after living together for 3 years or having a child together Property division based on contributions and unjust enrichment claims Inheritance rights only if named in a will or through successful dependent support claims Benefits eligibility for health insurance, pensions, and tax purposes Unlike married couples, common law partners must actively prove their entitlement to property and assets through legal claims, making proper documentation and cohabitation agreements particularly important.

Common Law Rights in Ontario: Key Legal Protections

Common law relationships in Ontario provide specific legal rights and obligations after cohabiting for 3+ years

In Ontario, common law partnerships are legally recognized relationships that differ from marriage. While common law partners don’t automatically receive the same property rights as married couples, they do gain important legal protections and responsibilities.

Key aspects of common law relationships in Ontario include:

Spousal support rights after living together for 3 years or having a child together
Property division based on contributions and unjust enrichment claims
Inheritance rights only if named in a will or through successful dependent support claims
Benefits eligibility for health insurance, pensions, and tax purposes

Unlike married couples, common law partners must actively prove their entitlement to property and assets through legal claims, making proper documentation and cohabitation agreements particularly important.