Protecting Your Partner: Estate Planning for Non-Married Couples

In recent months, I have spoken with many non-married couples who are beginning to think seriously about estate planning. Some are in long-term partnerships, others have recently moved in together, and a few have been together for decades but have chosen not to marry. Regardless of the length of the relationship, the same truth applies: without proper planning, the law will not automatically protect your partner.

Unlike married couples, non-married partners do not have the same default rights when it comes to inheritance, medical decision making, or managing affairs if one partner becomes incapacitated. Without clear legal documents, even a partner of many years can be excluded from important decisions or lose access to shared assets. A comprehensive estate plan can address these gaps.

• Wills or trusts to ensure your partner inherits according to your wishes.
• Powers of attorney for finances and health care, giving your partner the authority to act on your behalf if you cannot.
• Advance health care directives to outline your medical preferences and name your partner as your decision maker.
• Property agreements to clarify ownership and protect shared investments.

For couples who own a home together or share significant assets, it is especially important to ensure titles and beneficiary designations align with your overall plan. Without this, your partner may face legal challenges from family members or other heirs.

It is about ensuring the person you trust most is legally empowered to care for you and carry out your wishes. For non-married couples, taking these steps now provides peace of mind and helps avoid unnecessary conflict during already difficult times.

If you and your partner have not yet created a plan, I encourage you to begin the conversation. As an estate planning attorney in Palm Springs, I work with couples to design plans that reflect their priorities, protect their relationship, and provide clarity for the future.