Ruskin Divorce Attorneys are often asked about common law marriage because so many other states recognize common law marriage, yet folks read about Florida’s abolishment of this legal theory. In short, common law marriages occur when couples reside together for a certain, delineated time period and present themselves to the outside world as married couples. The easiest examples of presenting themselves as a married couple to the outside world are buying property together, undertaking debt together, calling themselves husband and wife, having children together. Basically undertaking and acting as if they’re married to the outside world.
In 1968, the state of Florida outlawed common law marriage from being recognized for Floridians. This is an important distinction because in the majority of situations, Florida will recognize common law marriages that occurred prior to 1968 for Floridians and common law marriages from individuals from outside states. This raises the issue of how does Florida ultimately determine whether a couple is actually married under common law. This is a fact specific determination that the court will have to make.
If you have questions concerning a Tampa family law matter or the impact of a common law marriage, contact the Tampa divorce attorneys of Hackworth Law for a free case consultation. We’ve handled hundreds of family law matters throughout the entire Tampa Bay area and will sit down with you to determine a case plan and strategy to insure your rights are protected. If you’d like to contact one of our Tampa divorce attorneys immediately, please use the “Contact Us Now” tab in the upper right hand corner of our website. We appreciate your time in checking out our Tampa divorce attorney blog and look forward to working with you.