Meretricious Relationships and the Law

Not every live-in relationship qualifies as a meretricious relationship. To determine if such a relationship exists and therefore if division of the property should proceed as if the parties were married, these important considerations must be examined:

• Has there been continuous cohabitation?
• What has been the duration of the relationship?
• What was the purpose of the relationship?
• To what extent were resources pooled and for what purposes?
• What was the intent of the parties?

The answers to these questions are not always clear. Making clear determinations can be difficult. Pierce Law Offices has extensive experience in matters involving the application of community property laws to live-in relationships, including the landmark case of Zion Construction v. Gilmore.

Pierce Law Offices can explain these rights and the effect of community property laws on your situation. If needed, we will aggressively work to protect your rights and interests.