Washington courts acknowledge a “stable, marital-like relationship where both parties cohabit with knowledge that a lawful marriage between them does not exist.”
This is called a “Committed Intimate Relationship.” (CIR)
To determine if this is in fact a CIR five factors are considered:
- Continuous cohabitation
- Duration of the relationship
- Purpose of the relationship
- Pooling resources and service for joint projects
- The intent of the parties
The courts and Vancouver, WA family lawyers often get involved when there is a separation in one of these cases. Here are two examples of those cases:
In September of 2012 a trial court summarily dismissed a suit to establish the existence of a committed intimate relationship concluding that the suit had to be brought within three years of the end of the relationship and in this case that had not been the case.
A complaint to divide property acquired during the CIR and for other relief was filed. A computer forensics experts recovered email between the two parties in which one party indicated she was “single”, and relationships with other people is referred to. These references came more than three years from the date of the lawsuit. This case can be found here.
Another case filed in August 2012 deals with a divorced couple who had a CIR before their marriage. The court was called upon to characterize and divide the parties’ assets and award spousal maintenance and child support. A determination had to be made on what date to award this support–from the time of the committed intimate relationship or the legal marriage. This case can be found here.
If you have questions about a domestic partnership, call a qualified Vancouver, Washington family law attorney.
Lambert Law Office, PLLC (360) 737-1473 is a good place to start. They are a compassionate legal firm that understands the law.