A common law marriage in Texas is when a man and woman become husband and wife without getting a marriage license and having a marriage ceremony. Once proved, a common law marriage has the same legal effect as a ceremonial marriage.
Some think that if you live together for a certain period of time or if you have children together, you automatically are in a common law marriage. This is not the case. To have a common law marriage in Texas, a couple must:
- Agree to be married
- Live together in Texas as husband and wife
- Represent to others that they are married
A couple has 2 years starting from the date they stopped living together to prove a common law marriage. You are unable to enter into a common law marriage if you are presently married or under the age of 18.
Do You Need To Speak With A Dallas, Texas Lawyer About Common Law Marriage?
Please contact us online or call our Dallas office directly at 214.559.7202 for more information on Common Law Marriages.
