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I would like to know what options, ( if any ) I may have regarding filing a palimony suit.
Optional Information: State/Country relating to question: Washington Already Tried: I haven't tried anything yet, because I don't know what it is I can do?! I selected Wa. state as relating to the question, though at present time and for the last 7 years have been residing in Arizona, still living with the I've been with for 23 years. We are both from Wa. We met and began a relationship there and continued that relationship in Wa. until 7 years ago. I desperatley want and, need to move back home
ANSWER:There is no legal authority for a lawsuit for "palimony" under either Washington law or under Arizona law. As a general legal rule, persons who are otherwise capable of marrying one another but who choose instead to simply live together without marriage are by that action choosing not to be treated in the eyes of the law as a married couple, at least so far as the issue of post-separation spousal support is concerned.
HOWEVER, under Washington law, palimony (meaning a court award by which a party to a non-marital relationship is ordered to pay money to the other party (ex-partner) when a non-marital relationship is dissolved) may be ordered if the parties to the relationship had an express contract (such as a written "cohabitation agreement") based on considerations other than sexual services. Where no formal agreement exists the court may consider whether the conduct of the parties allows a finding of “implied contract” or an understanding which would support such an award.
Experience: 30+ years family law experience. QDROs, UIFSA, UCCJEA expertise.