In Wisconsin, the term “cohabitation” applies to couples who have decided to live together without being married, either of the same or opposite genders.  As in a traditional marriage relationship, a couple who cohabits often shares personal property, owns a home, assumes joint debt and even helps raise children together.

Under Wisconsin law, cohabitation is not recognized as a marriage, nor does Wisconsin recognize “common law marriage.”  If a cohabitating couple desires to end their relationship and divide property, they cannot rely on Wisconsin divorce laws; rather they must seek relief in Wisconsin contract law and the laws governing unjust enrichment and the partition of property.

Related terms:  Common law marriage property, unmarried couples.