Committed Intimate Relationships
(CIR) in Washington

When you live with a partner without marrying, Washington law does not treat you the same as a married couple. Washington does not recognize common law marriage, but courts may still recognize what is called a committed intimate relationship (CIR).

You may have questions about:

• Whether your relationship qualifies as a committed intimate relationship
• How jointly acquired property and debt may be divided
• What happens to a home, business, or retirement account you built together
• Your rights if you never signed a cohabitation agreement
• Child custody and support, regardless of marital status
• Options for protecting yourself going forward

Washington courts look at factors like how long you lived together, whether you pooled finances, and the intent behind your relationship, making it important to understand your rights before assuming property is divided fairly on its own.

At Dellino Family Law Group, we take the time to understand your relationship, listen to your concerns & develop a legal strategy based on your circumstances. Whether you are working to protect what you have built together or untangle shared property after a separation, you do not have to navigate this alone.

Schedule your confidential consultation with Dellino Family Law Group today.