DISSOLUTION OF A COHABITATION AGREEMENT: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
In Greece, a cohabitation agreement (Σύμφωνο Συμβίωσης) represents a modern legal instrument governing the relationship between two individuals, regardless of gender, and produces significant legal effects in both personal and property-related matters. As with its conclusion, the termination of a cohabitation agreement is subject to the procedure prescribed by law.
When and How Can a Cohabitation Agreement Be Dissolved?
A cohabitation agreement may be dissolved in the following ways:
1. By Mutual Agreement of the Parties
The parties to the cohabitation agreement may terminate it at any time by mutual consent through a joint notarized declaration, without the need to provide any reasons. If they decide to proceed with termination, they must appear before a notary, sign the deed of dissolution, which must then be registered with the competent civil registry authorities.
2. Unilaterally
A cohabitation agreement may be dissolved unilaterally without the consent of the other party. In such a case, dissolution is carried out through a notarized unilateral declaration, without the need to provide reasons for the decision. The other party must be notified in advance of the submission of the declaration, and the declaration must be registered with the competent civil registry authority, after which the dissolution becomes legally effective. This procedure allows the agreement to be terminated even in the absence of the consent of one of the partners, provided that the legally established requirements are followed.
3. In the Event of Marriage Between the Parties
The marriage of the same parties automatically results in the termination of the cohabitation agreement.
4. In the Event of the Death of One of the Partners
In the event of the death of one of the partners, the cohabitation agreement is automatically terminated. At the same time, the surviving partner may acquire inheritance rights and corresponding legal obligations.
Legal Consequences of the Dissolution of a Cohabitation Agreement
The dissolution of a cohabitation agreement may give rise to rights and obligations provided for by law or established by the agreement itself. In particular, it may affect:
Maintenance obligations, where such obligations arise under the law or the terms of the agreement;
Property-related disputes, particularly in cases involving jointly acquired assets;
Matters concerning minor children, including custody, place of residence, and arrangements for communication and contact.
It should be emphasized that the unilateral dissolution of a cohabitation agreement does not automatically release either party from existing obligations, which may require resolution through out-of-court negotiations or judicial proceedings.
The dissolution of a cohabitation agreement is an important legal step that requires a responsible approach and proper legal awareness. Regardless of whether the dissolution takes place by mutual agreement or unilaterally, professional legal support plays a key role in ensuring compliance with the law and protecting the rights of both parties.
Follow us on social media:
Attorney at Law in Athens | Legal Services in Greece | Divorce Proceedings in Greece | Termination of a Cohabitation Agreement in Greece | Family Law Services in Greece
