New York State Law Not Adapting To Changing Times --Manhattan Legal Expert Supports Cohabitation Agreements--

Many couples today decline marriage, but what happens when financially lopsided couples who decline the protections of marriage, break up? Wealthy individuals or those who anticipate large inheritances may want to protect their assets. Likewise, those who enter into a relationship and sacrifice time and effort in supporting it in non-financial ways will want to ensure their security should a break-up occur."Like most states, New York does not recognize common law marriage and does not allow same sex marriage or civil unions," said Liz Mandarano, a Manhattan family law and divorce attorney