Colorado Common Law Marriage Attorney
In Colorado, a common law marriage legally recognizes a union without a formal ceremony or marriage license. Couples may be considered married if they mutually agree to the union and present themselves as spouses to the public. This unique facet of Colorado law can create questions about rights, responsibilities, and legal status.
Peek Goldstone can assist with common law marriages. We can help couples understand their rights under Colorado Law. Our team provides clarity and guidance, allowing you to address your circumstances with confidence.
To meet with our legal team about establishing a common law marriage, call us today at (970) 352-8611.
Explaining Common Law Marriage
Common law marriage in Colorado is based on the intent of the parties to enter into a common law marriage. For a relationship to be recognized as a common law marriage, the Court will look at a wide variety of factors including, but not limited to:
- Using the same last name
- Referring to each other as spouses in public
- Sharing finances, like joint bank accounts and property
- Residing together
Essentially, how others view the couple is part of whether common law marriage is legitimate.
Legal Implications of Common Law Marriage
In Colorado, a common law marriage carries the same legal weight as a formal marriage. It comes with the same rights and responsibilities. Common law marriage often requires subsequent legal proceedings to establish or dissolve the relationship formally.
When a common law marriage ends, couples must divide property the same as they would in a formal marriage. Assets acquired during the relationship, such as homes, vehicles, or shared investments, fall within the scope of marital property. Colorado courts follow equitable distribution principles, dividing these assets fairly based on contributions, financial circumstances, and other relevant factors. Couples must also handle debt accumulated throughout the relationship.
Without formal marriage documentation, disputes over property ownership may become challenging, requiring parties to present evidence of joint efforts and intentions.
When children are involved, custody and parenting decisions depend on the best interests of the child. Both parents in a common law marriage retain the same legal rights and responsibilities as those in a licensed marriage.
Courts evaluate factors such as parenting capabilities, emotional bonds, and stability when determining custody arrangements. Legal rights to visitation or joint custody hinge on the court’s assessment of the child’s overall welfare.
Courts may award spousal support, or alimony, when a common law marriage dissolves. Alimony is almost certain if one partner depends on the other financially. Factors influencing support include the duration of the relationship, the financial standing of each party, and their contributions to the household.
Support agreements aim to address imbalanced financial outcomes from the separation, and they consider each partner's capacity to become independent.
How Peek Goldstone Can Help
Our team can help you determine the legitimacy of your common law marriage. We can carefully examine your situation, considering the legal requirements and necessary evidence to clarify your marital status.
When dissolving a common law marriage, we handle the complexities of the process with precision. We work to protect your interests while navigating the legal procedures required. Our team approaches every aspect with care, and we can help resolve disputes.
Property division and financial matters can feel overwhelming, but we provide comprehensive support during these discussions. We can help identify jointly owned assets and address debts and contributions to the household. Our approach focuses on fairness and practicality.
Our team is here to help solidify your common law marriage, and we can step in to dissolve the marriage if necessary. You can schedule time with our Colorado team online today.
