What Is Common-Law Marriage?

Intent to be married  Public recognition (calling each other ‘husband/wife’) Cohabitation (but no fixed time requirement!)

States That Recognize It (2024) 

Alabama, Colorado, Kansas…  California, Florida, New York (myth: no, living together ≠ marriage).

Alabama’s Quirky Rules 

1. Live together + call yourselves married.  File joint taxes. Introduce each other as ‘spouse 

Proving Common-Law Marriage 

 Joint bank accounts/leases.  Insurance policies listing partner. Witness testimonies (friends/family). 

Rights & Risks 

Inheritance rights.  Divorce alimony.  But also:  Debt liability.  No prenup = messy splits!  

How to ‘Opt Out’  

 Sign a cohabitation agreement.  Avoid joint finances/titles. Clarify: ‘We’re not married 

Prenups & Common-Law Marriage  

Protect assets.  Define debt responsibility. Avoid court battles.