Unmarried couples in Germany can use legal documents to protect each other

In Germany, unmarried couples are generally treated as legal strangers, even if they live together, have children or share money.

More than three million couples are affected, and about one-third have children, according to the figures cited.

Without legal arrangements, a partner may not be able to get medical information or make decisions in an emergency, and does not automatically inherit if the other partner dies.

A power of attorney can allow a partner to handle medical, financial and administrative matters if someone cannot act for themselves.

Both partners can sign a rental contract so each has a right to the home if they separate.

For a home purchase, ownership depends on who is entered in the land register, so couples should document payments and consider a contract.

The plan also mentions a will and a partnership agreement as ways to provide protection.