How would it work to buy a house with my boyfriend?

My boyfriend has hinted on us buying a home together (as well as getting married), but the house seems to be more of a priority since I live with my parents and he will be getting out of the Army early next year. I was already in the process of saving for a home before I met him, but this probably won't be possible for a year or so. My credit score is great, but since I have school loans I wouldn't qualify for a loan without a co-signer. His credit isn't so great, but he may be able to get the VA loan (I don't know anything about this). So in this case who would be on the mortgage and/or deed? What would happen if we happen to break up since we wouldn't be married? (This is not what I am planning on, just thinking of the worst case scenario). In this case would it be good to find a lawter to draw up some kind of agreement in case of a break up?