How long do I have to live with someone to be in a defacto relationship? De facto relationships aren’t simply based on a timer.

It’s widely believed that you have to be living with someone for at least 2 years to be classified as a defacto couple under the Family Law Act. However, living together is only 1 of 9 factors the Court must consider in determining whether a defacto relationship exists.

Did you know even if you have lived together for less than 2 years, if you have a child with your partner, you will be considered a defacto couple for the purposes of applying for property orders under the Family Law Act?

Some of the other 9 factors include if the relationship is registered, the length of your cohabitation, the nature of your common residence, your mutual commitment to a shared life, whether you share a child and/or have shared finances.

Figuring out if you are in a defacto relationship or not can be essential when you are considering your rights under the Family Law Act. If you need guidance, or you’re not sure what this could mean for you, contact our Family Law Team for expert assistance on 4951 8199 or by email.

 

The material included in this website is produced by O’Hearn Lawyers Pty Limited.  It is designed and intended for general information purposes only.  The contents do not constitute legal advice, are not intended to be a substitute for legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.  You should seek legal advice or other professional advice in relation to any particular matters you or your organisation may have.

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