Asked in Family Law for Texas

Q: I live in the State of Texas - I am unmarried, but I have been living with a woman for the past 10 years.

I have been very careful to avoid having our living situation qualify as a common law marriage under Texas law. I did designate my live-in friend as my domestic partner for health insurance purposes when I was working, but there was never a formal agreement of any kind. I own 100% of the house we live in (no mortgage). From separate assets in separate accounts, we have each contributed to monthly \ annual living expenses (utilities, house taxes, insurance, etc.). My Living Trust bequeaths a small amount of money to her from my estate upon my death, as well as provisions giving her a life estate to live in the house until she dies or decides to move - my children will own the house - she's responsible for upkeep, taxes, utilities, etc.. Given those conditions, would my live-in friend have any claim to any of my assets? And given those conditions, would I be able to make my live-in friend to move out if she doesn't want to.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Penny Wymyczak-White
Penny Wymyczak-White
Answered
  • Houston, TX
  • Licensed in Texas

A: You need to have a Will and be specific . Show her the will and explain to her your wishes,

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