How would you ever prove it? One party could claim in court that they never "agreed" they were married. You'd have to track down witnesses to tell the court "Hey, those 2 both told me at the supermarket that they were married" If one person's name is on the lease or deed, just kick the other person out if they aren't paying rent. Don't set yourself up for failure; avoid steering in the direction of these kinds of scenarios.
Originally Posted by Pangolier
In the vast majority of cases, they want to be married. Just without all the cost and formality of a conventional wedding. So generaly, its not that hard to prove.
But you are correct. Its not as easy to prove as a conventional marrage. So the claim early in this tread that showing up at a hotal with a gal claiming your married gives either party any maratial rights is wrong.
If you want to get married this way, fine. But just living togeather does not mean your married. If you are in or considering this, know the law and know your rights. Because once you meet the requirments of common law marrage, you are married with all the baggage of a conventional marrage. You cannot just walk away without paying a cost.