Mediation Provides a Forum for Legal Resolution of Domestic Partnership Issues

Divorce and matrimony law in Indiana often leaves same-sex and other couples in committed domestic relationships without any recourse at the end of the relationship. Domestic partnership mediation provides a forum for couples dissolving their relationships. Mediation of domestic partnership dissolutions can result in binding legal contracts between the domestic partners encompassing many issues, including: disposition of a joint residence, possession of personal property, payment of debts, division of financial assets, possession of pets and even parenting time and support of any children.

Couples who do not desire to get married, or who are unable to get married, often enter into a cohabitation agreement to pre-determine how to handle issues that might arise during or at the end of the relationship. Cohabitation agreements are binding contracts, and are enforceable in Indiana. Cohabitation agreements can cover and include terms governing: allocation of living expenses and obligations; divisions of personal and real property; disposition of other assets and debts in the event of break-up. Mediation of cohabitation agreements allows for a respectful and thorough treatment of delicate issues at the start of a committed relationship.