Common law marriage in Texas may exist without a wedding or marriage license if three criteria are met: mutual agreement to be married, living together as spouses, and publicly representing the relationship as a marriage. Recognizing this status is important because it affects property rights, legal protections, and what happens if the relationship ends.
Does Texas Recognize Common Law Marriage?
Texas still recognizes common law, or “informal,” marriages. Couples who live together, agree to be married, and publicly represent themselves as spouses may have the same legal rights as those in traditional marriages, including property and inheritance rights, and must file for divorce if the relationship ends. Many women only realize they are legally married after separating from their partner. A Texas family law attorney at WSM Law can help clarify your marital status and protect your rights.
The Three Requirements for the State of Texas Common Law Marriage
Texas common law marriage requires meeting all three conditions at the same time. Meeting only one or two of these requirements is not sufficient.
1. Agreement to Be Married
Both partners must mutually agree to be married, not just living together or in a committed relationship. You must both consider yourselves married. Simply living together for a long time doesn’t automatically create this agreement.
2. Living Together in Texas
You must live together (cohabitate) in Texas as a married couple would, sharing a home, responsibilities, and daily life. There’s no specific time requirement, but the longer you’ve lived together while meeting the other requirements, the stronger the case.
3. Representing Yourself as Married
Couples must present themselves publicly as husband and wife. Examples include filing joint tax returns, using the same last name, listing each other on insurance or bank accounts, and telling friends or family they are married.
In addition to the above, you must meet the following criteria:
- Both parties must be at least 18 years old
- Neither party can be married to someone else
- Same-sex couples can establish a common law marriage
What Rights Do You Have in a Texas Common Law Marriage?
Once a common law marriage is established, the legal protections are identical to traditional marriages, which is why understanding your status is so critical.
Valid common law marriages carry the same legal rights as traditional marriages:
- Property Rights: Texas is a community property state; income, real estate, vehicles, and debts are shared equally.
- Medical Decisions: Common law partners can make healthcare decisions for one another and have hospital visitation rights.
- Inheritance Rights: Partners may inherit under Texas intestacy laws.
- Divorce Requirements: A formal divorce is required; separation alone does not end the marriage.
These rights can significantly impact your financial future, which is why consulting with a Texas family law attorney early in the process is essential for protecting your interests.
How Do You Prove Common Law Marriage in Texas?
Proof can be straightforward with a signed Declaration and Registration of Informal Marriage at the county clerk’s office. Without this, evidence may include joint bank accounts, shared leases, tax returns, insurance policies listing each other as spouses, shared social media references, and testimony from friends or family. The stronger your documentation, the more secure your legal position. Our Texas family law lawyers from WSM can help gather and present this evidence effectively.
What Happens When a State of Texas Common Law Marriage Ends?
Ending a common law marriage requires the same legal process as any other divorce, and the stakes are equally high for property division and support.
If a common law marriage is proven, community property is divided the same as formal marriages. However, if two years pass after separation and neither party has filed anything to prove the marriage, Texas presumes the marriage never existed. This can cost you property rights and financial protection.
Talk to a Texas Family Law Attorney to Understand Common Law Marriage in Texas
Understanding common law marriage in Texas is important for protecting your finances, property, and children. Whether establishing your rights or ending an informal relationship, timely legal guidance matters. A Texas family law attorney at WSM Law can review your situation, explain your options, and take action. Call (380) 203-2023 or contact us online for a free consultation today.