In a minority of states, couples who meet certain requirements are considered married even if they never went through a legal marriage ceremony or obtained a marriage license. These common law marriages are treated just like legal marriages if the couple decides to separate—the common law spouses must divide their property and deal with custody of children just like married couples. But common law marriage is a lot less common than most people think. Only a few states allow it, and only certain couples meet the criteria. Learn the rules here.
A “common law marriage” is a marriage that is legally valid even though the couple didn’t obtain a marriage license or go through a wedding ceremony.
What establishes common law marriage? Find out here.
Common Law Marriage and State Requirements
Couples may currently enter into common law marriages in the states of Alabama, Colorado, Kansas, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Iowa, Montana, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and the District of Columbia.
Common Law Marriage in Oklahoma
Oklahoma recognizes common law marriages. Learn the state requirements here.
Does California Recognize Common Law Marriage?
Learn whether unmarried couples in the Golden State have any of the same legal rights as their married counterparts.