Not sure where to start..

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Troubled

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So, still in the very early stages of this, and have found your website useful. Want to know where I stand in this situation.

I just seperated with my 4yr girlfriend. We've been living together for 2yrs10mths. We live in Ontario.

We purchased a house approx. 3.5 months ago.

In all fairness, I contributed 100% of our $20,000 deposit, and probably 80-90% of our additional $85,000 down payment.

We currently do not have any 'joint' accounts... essentially she has been giving me all her money, I've been depositing it into my account, and I have been paying for 100% of the bills, mortgage, etc (using 'our' money).

What do I stand to lose?? Can she go for/get half?? (what is written one the 'Common-Law Separation' site is different than what I am hearing from friends, etc.)

I don't think she is a 'out to screw you' type of person, but I guess you never know.

Any help advice would certainly be appreciated.
 
I think it boils down to what can you prove. If it turns out that she does want the house or have the selling price can you prove that you put up the majority of the money?
 
For the purposes of family law you need to be living together for 3 years to be considered common law, so I don't think you need to worry about having to give her "half" of everything and the equalization laws that apply to married couples do not apply to you, but I'm not sure about the house I guess it depends if it is in both your names.
 
I've reread your post. I don't think she can get half if the house is not in both of your names, however, you may be required to pay her portion of the contribution towards it. I would check with an attorney at this point since it seems to be a major concern.
 
Thanks everyone

Thanks everyone

Thanks everyone who has posted a comment...It is really reassuring (in a volatile time) to know that others are here to support me.

The House IS in both of our names, so I'm not sure how this affects things.

We have not been living together for 3 years..so does that mean there is NO common-law status??

If so..does that mean she could walk away with nothing?? (not that I would ever do that...it's not a 'nasty' breakup, so I feel being FAIR is essential.).

Thanks again everyone...need the reassurrance.
 
It seems to me if the house in her name as well as yours you are co owners and unless you have an agreement saying she owns XX % and you own YY% I would believe it would be assumed to be 1/2 hers and 1/2 yours. Doesn't matter if she was common law or your friend or some person off the street. You are both owners.

You wouldn't be able to sell it or anything without her signature. You'll need to see what she wants from it and buy her out.
 
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