In the present article, we examine the extent to which legal norms related tofamily matters are in line with the diverse social representations of currentconjugal life, more particularly as concerns the economic interdependence of thecouple during or subsequent to their union. Two Quebec legal measures compelattention: the division of the family patrimony and the obligation of supportpayable to the former partner. The present analysis is based on an empiricalstudy involving couples living together in Quebec. Whereas current legaldiscourse concerning unmarried cohabitation appears focused on spousal support,our survey has brought out two elements that could challenge the current legalapproach. When it comes to social representations, we find that the awarding ofsupport to the partner is highly controversial. The majority of our respondentsalso believe that the family patrimony should be shared equally, whether or notthe couple is married, and more especially when there are children, the propertyof the household being deemed to be the fruit of a joint and family-orientedeffort.
