What Is Common Law Marriage in NJ?
Common law marriage is a legal concept that recognizes a couple as married, even if they have not obtained a marriage license or participated in a formal wedding ceremony. New Jersey, like many other states, does not recognize common law marriage, which means couples who live together and consider themselves married are not granted the same legal rights and protections as married couples.
Historically, common law marriage originated from English law and was considered valid in many jurisdictions in the United States. However, over time, states began to pass laws that abolished or restricted common law marriage. New Jersey abolished common law marriage in 1939, making it one of the many states that no longer recognize this type of union.
To be considered married under common law, certain elements had to be met. These typically included cohabitation, mutual consent or agreement to be married, and holding oneself out as a married couple. However, New Jersey now requires couples to obtain a marriage license and participate in a formal wedding ceremony to be legally recognized as married.
FAQs:
Q: If common law marriage is not recognized in New Jersey, what happens if a couple separates?
A: Since common law marriage is not recognized, couples who separate do not have the same legal protections as married couples. There are no specific laws regarding property division, spousal support, or child custody for couples who lived together but were not formally married. In such cases, the division of property and other legal issues would be treated as if the couple were unrelated individuals.
Q: Can a couple who lived together for many years and considered themselves married claim common law marriage in another state that recognizes it?
A: It is possible for a couple to establish a common law marriage in a state that recognizes it, even if they lived in New Jersey. However, it is important to note that not all states recognize common law marriage, and each state has its own specific requirements. If a couple wishes to establish a common law marriage, they should consult with an attorney who specializes in family law to understand the requirements of the state they are in.
Q: Are there any legal rights or protections for couples who live together in New Jersey?
A: While couples who live together in New Jersey do not have the same legal rights and protections as married couples, they can take certain steps to protect themselves and their assets. For example, couples can enter into cohabitation agreements, which outline the rights and responsibilities of each party, including property division, financial support, and other matters. Additionally, couples can create wills and other estate planning documents to ensure their partner is provided for in the event of their death.
Q: Can a couple who lived together as if married in another state claim common law marriage in New Jersey?
A: No, New Jersey does not recognize common law marriage regardless of where the couple lived before. Even if a couple established a common law marriage in a state that recognizes it, New Jersey law does not grant them the same legal recognition.
Q: What are the benefits of obtaining a marriage license and having a formal wedding ceremony?
A: Obtaining a marriage license and participating in a formal wedding ceremony provides couples with legal recognition and numerous benefits. Some of these benefits include inheritance rights, tax advantages, access to healthcare and other insurance benefits, spousal support, and child custody rights. Marriage also grants couples certain legal protections in the event of separation or divorce, ensuring a fair division of assets and potential financial support.