Common law marriage in California and the Old versus New West. Marriage is a creature of statute in California. That means a valid marriage entered into the State of California requires that the husband and wife must go through the formal process of the marriage licensing and solemnization laws. read more
Common Law Marriage Myths A couple becomes married by common law when there is no official ceremony, but the two people consider themselves married and meet certain criteria. However, not all states recognize common law marriage, and California is one of them, which brings us to common law marriage myth number one. read more
It actually has. While it is uncommon (pun is partially intended), a common law marriage in Alabama was recognized in the State of California back in 1986. read more
Contrary to popular belief, even if two people live together for a certain number of years, if they don't intend to be married and present themselves to others as a married couple, there is no common law marriage. read more