In some states, including Utah, couples are considered married after being living together for a long period of time, sharing finances, and hold themselves as married. Common law couples act just as married couples, except they are not required to get a marriage license, and have a traditional ceremony. If you choose to end a common law marriage, it’s important you understand these laws and find experienced legal representation from a Salt Lake City divorce attorney.
Utah requirements
Some requirements in common law marriages in the State of Utah include:
- Parties are of legal age, at least 18 years old.
- They cohabited before common law marriage Utah.
- They can lawfully enter into solemnized marriage.
- They hold themselves as married even before common law was implemented in Utah.
- They assume marital obligations, rights, and duties within the common law marriage.
Validity of common law marriage
Although there are laws that address common law marriage in the states allowing such unions, some specific things are considered in order to recognize a common law marriage Utah or any other state recognizing common law:
- The parties signed the power of attorney papers while still being in the relationship.
- The marriage took place in a state where such unions are allowed.
Common law marriage Utah can be validated within another state but some factors such as a separation or divorce are considered. Some things the court generally considers to validate a common law marriage in Utah include:
- Parties cohabited either in Utah or another state where such marriages are legal.
- There are common law marriage requirements established by the out of state jurisdiction.
- The court can establish the date of the common law marriage.
- The court may determine whether there were POA documents signed before cohabitation.
Getting a divorce
The procedure for getting a divorce it’s exactly the same as for married couples. You need to file papers in order for the court to dissolve your marriage and divide property accumulated throughout the years you lived together. If you had children, the court will determine child custody and child support. Alimony can also be petitioned. Some other things to think about are:
- Property division – If parties can’t agree on how to divide their assets, the court will be able to determine and rule on this issue after receiving submissions from both parties. You can also have a mediator to help you work out a fair agreement on marital property division.
- Debts – The individual under whose name the debt appears is responsible to pay the debt. Sometimes agreements can be made where one of the spouses can pay a specific debt. However, the primary borrower is always responsible to pay off the debt, even when the other party fails to pay as agreed.
- Divorce may not be necessary – In some cases, a divorce may not be necessary if the couple has only lived together for so long and have only a few joint assets, friendly breakups in couples with no children, or a relationship where they can reach an agreement about their property and assets.
Speak to an attorney
Perhaps you want to end a relationship with the person you live with but you are not sure if your union is considered a common-law marriage that may require a divorce. Whether you are legally married or not, a separation can be a difficult process. With the help of a Salt Lake City divorce attorney, you will be able to figure out where you stand and move forward to better horizons.