Select your state

Marriage

common law or informal

Common law marriage—also known as marriage without formalities or informal marriage—is marriage without a wedding or marriage ceremony and without a marriage license. Some states recognize common law marriage under certain circumstances—such as when the parties agree to be married, live together (cohabit) after agreeing to be married, and represent to others that they are married (holding themselves out as a married couple).

Other states previously recognized common law marriages, but no longer recognize such marriages after a certain date on which the law was changed—usually by statute. In other states, common law marriage has not been recognized by the legislature in a statute, but the courts have recognized common law marriage in court opinions or case law.

In Michigan, common law marriages are not recognized. The state abolished the recognition of new common law marriages as of January 1, 1957. This means that couples cannot establish a legally recognized marriage in Michigan simply by living together for a certain period of time, agreeing to be married, or holding themselves out to the public as a married couple. However, Michigan does recognize common law marriages that were established in other states where such marriages are legally recognized, provided they meet the legal requirements of those states. For a marriage to be legally recognized in Michigan, the couple must obtain a marriage license and have a formal marriage ceremony.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Marriage

common law or informal

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Michigan State Code

Michigan State Code

Marriage

common law or informal

Articles