California Common Law Marriage 2023 – All You Need to Know

The Law Offices of James L. Arrasmith

In 2023, California maintains its stance of not officially recognizing common-law marriages established within its borders; however, this does not mean that couples in non-formalized unions have no legal recourses. Although not widely recognized, if a couple moves into California from a state where their common-law marriage was legally established, California law would grant them the same legal standings as a formally married couple, respecting the full faith and credit clause of the US Constitution.

It is essential for couples in such arrangements to be aware of their rights and responsibilities in this context. Those navigating these legal waters may seek the guidance of legal experts to better understand how the recent trends and nuances in California law in 2023 might affect them, ensuring that they make informed decisions safeguarding their partnership legally. This remains a dynamic legal area, with considerable implications for property rights, inheritance, and other significant life matters, underlining the importance of staying abreast with the latest developments.

Common Law Marriage in California

At Pacific Park in Santa Monica, a cheerful elderly couple embodies the spirit of common law marriage; their enduring love testament to the deep bonds formed through years of unwavering partnership, showcasing that true commitment goes beyond legal certificates in the golden state of California.
  • Overview of common law marriage as of 2023
  • How California law recognizes common law marriages from other states
  • How California law differs from other U.S states
  • Overview as of 2023
  • Historical background on the recognition in California

FAQs

  • Q: Are common law marriages valid in California?
  • Q: When is common law marriage recognized in California?
  • Q: Does California recognize common law relationships?
  • Q: Why does common law marriage matter in California?
  • Q: When did California stop recognizing common law marriage?
  • Q: When did California stop recognizing common law marriage?
  • Q: Does California recognize common law relationships from other states?
A law gavel and wedding rings on a table depict the intertwining of love and law, underscoring the legal considerations awaiting unmarried couples in California, a state where legal provisions can sometimes offer protections akin to those in marriage. It's a subtle reminder to understand your rights and safeguard your partnership.

Rights and Partnerships

  • Understanding the rights of unmarried couples
  • Cohabitation agreements and domestic partnerships in California

FAQs

  • Q: Do unmarried couples have rights in California?
  • Q: Is common law marriage the same as a domestic partnership?
  • Q: Is California a community property state if we are not married?

Palimony

  • Understanding “palimony” in California
  • “Palimony” claims in California

Separation

  • Actions for breach of written contract during separation
  • How finances are divided when an unmarried couple separates

Parenting Considerations for Unmarried Couples

A wooden gavel beside a child support document illustrates the vital role legal agreements play in securing a child's future for unmarried couples.
  • Paternity: Establishing paternity and its legal implications in California.
  • Child Support: Understanding the obligations and calculation of child support for unmarried parents.
  • Custody: Navigating child custody agreements and how to formulate them effectively.

Practical Considerations

  • Co-Parenting: Tips and guidelines for effective co-parenting for unmarried couples.
  • Emergency Situations: Preparing for emergency situations and understanding the rights of unmarried parents in such scenarios.
  • Modifications: Insights on how to approach modifications to child support or custody agreements when circumstances change.

FAQs

  • Do unmarried fathers have rights in California?
    • Yes, they have rights, but they must legally establish paternity to enforce them.
  • Can unmarried parents draft a legally binding co-parenting agreement?
    • Yes, they can draft a co-parenting agreement that can be upheld in court, outlining the responsibilities and rights of each parent.
  • What role does the child’s best interest play in determining custody and support?
    • The child’s best interest is the paramount consideration in any legal deliberation regarding custody and support, encompassing factors such as the child’s age, health, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.
  • How are child support amounts determined for unmarried parents?
    • Child support amounts are determined based on a variety of factors including both parents’ incomes, the amount of time each parent spends with the child, and the specific needs of the child.
  • Can an unmarried parent relocate with the child?
    • Relocating with the child generally requires the consent of the other parent or a court order, and it should be in line with the child’s best interests. It’s encouraged to consult with a legal expert in such situations.
A lawyer reviewing a case in their office represents the crucial first step in seeking expert legal consultation in California.
  • When to talk to a divorce attorney
  • Family law and marriage assistance in California

Consultation Firms

  • Working with specific law offices such as those of H. William Edgar

Recognize Common Law Marriage

Understanding the Intricacies

  • Definition: Elucidating what encompasses a common law marriage.
  • Requirements: Detailed breakdown of requirements in states that recognize common law marriage.
  • Proof: Ways to provide evidence of a common law marriage in legal settings.

Implications in California

  • Recognition from Other States: How California recognizes common law marriages from other states following the full faith and credit clause of the US Constitution.
  • Legal Protections: Exploring the extent of legal protections available to couples in common law marriages from other states when they move to California.
  • Disputes: Handling disputes arising out of common law marriages and the legal provisions in California.

FAQs

  • Are common law marriages from other states valid in California?
    • Yes, if established legally in another state, California will recognize the union.
  • Can a new common law marriage be initiated in California?
    • No, as of 2023, California does not allow the establishment of new common law marriages.
  • Do common law marriages affect property rights in California?
    • Yes, once recognized, it carries implications for property rights, adhering to community property principles for assets acquired during the union.
  • Can one receive spousal support stemming from a common law marriage?
    • Yes, if the common law marriage is recognized, one might be eligible for spousal support under California law.

How to File for Divorce in the State of California

Preparation Steps

  • Research: Understand the California divorce laws and requirements.
  • Documents: Gather all necessary documents including financial records and property deeds.
  • Residency: Ensure you meet the residency requirement of living in California for at least 6 months.

Filing Process

  • Petition: File a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage (Form FL-100) to initiate the process.
  • Serve: Serve the divorce papers to your spouse legally.
  • Response: Your spouse has 30 days to respond.
  • Negotiations: Work towards an agreement on asset division, child custody, etc.
  • Court: If agreement is not reached, be prepared for court hearings.

Finalizing

  • Settlement: Reach a settlement agreement with your spouse.
  • Judgment: Submit the final judgment to the court.
  • Notice: Receive the notice of entry of judgment, officially ending your marriage.

FAQs

  • How long does a divorce take in California?
    • Typically, there is a mandatory 6 months waiting period, but it can take longer depending on the complexity of the case.
  • Can I file for divorce online in California?
    • Yes, you can initiate the process online, but you will still need to serve the papers to your spouse and possibly attend court hearings.
  • What are the grounds for divorce in California?
    • California is a no-fault divorce state, meaning you do not need to prove any wrongdoing on behalf of your spouse. The most common grounds are irreconcilable differences.
  • How is property divided in a California divorce?
    • California is a community property state, meaning all assets acquired during the marriage are generally split equally between both parties.
  • What about child custody and support?

Child custody and support are determined based on the best interests of the child, taking into consideration factors such as the child’s age, health, and each parent’s ability to care for the child. It is encouraged to reach an agreement outside of court to avoid a potentially adversarial court battle.

Related Terms: legal marriage, valid common law marriage, legally married, considered legally married, joint bank accounts, married couples, recognized common law marriage, formal marriage, community property rights, spousal support, legal rights, marriage occurred, marriage license, family law attorney, long term relationship, health insurance coverage, same rights, property division, marriage relationship, traditional marriage, provide financial support, alimony payments, ca common law marriage, recognize common law marriages.

Client Reviews

James Arrasmith is one smart attorney! He understood my problem and came up with a great solution right away. I can depend on him to listen and ask the right questions to get straight to my issues. His availability is...

Alan Murphy

Hiring James to handle my eviction / landlord tenant case is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. He assisted me every step of the way and made the process smooth and easy. It was obvious that he truly cared about...

Monica Martínez alvarado

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

DD M

Great consultation, efficient, attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process. Mr...

Nadia Faraci

James is an amazing attorney!! I had never hired a lawyer before (and was very nervous), but James took hours of his time to explain the entire procedure to me. He gave me a thorough consultation, and I was so impressed...

Ledi

James was the only person to answer the phone at 7am on a Saturday morning. My first phone call to him was as a scared and stressed woman with no idea on where to even begin to explain the sort of help I needed. James...

Renae Elise

James helped me with two landlord tenant issues. In both cases, I was able to expeditiously resolve my issue with the tenant. I appreciate his genuine care for his clients; a rare trait in an attorney. I would highly...

theresa26 r

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave...

Tricia Matsis

James Arrasmith did a great job for me on my legal matter. From the first time I talked to him he was very professional and knew what he was talking about. I would recommend James Arrasmith to anyone who needs help with...

Alvin Warren

I can't express enough how much James put my heart at ease. He has really been dugiligant at getting things done vs what I have experienced before using other lawyers. Highly recommend James if your looking for trust...

Jeremy Rasmussen Finnif Skate

James Arrasmith is a fantastic attorney. He is respectful and knowledgeable! Always very responsive and really takes his time explaining everything so you can understand it. I would highly recommend you meet with James...

Andrew Noseworthy

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James Pearson

Highly recommend choosing James. He was extremely responsive always making sure I understood every step of the process. In addition, he would periodically check in with me before important decisions needed to be made.

Tulsi

He is experts and reasonable attorney.

Ahmad Ali Shinwary

Best attorney I ever worked with... he takes time to explain the whole process and and will make sure you are happy with his work. We did a living trust and he helped me with an eviction case. I highly recommend him!

Alina Cojocari

James is an excellent attorney. I recommend him to anyone who's looking for someone who cares and wants to help win their case! :)

Allen Esealuka

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber Styles

I cannot begin to describe how amazing and reassuring it was to have James guide me through the most challenging moment of my life. When my mother let me know she would soon be passing from cancer and wanted to leave her...

Tricia

James is a professional with outstanding customer service. We hired him to take care of an issue for us and he delivered as promised. I highly recommend him if you have any ongoing legal issues. James it's absolute...

Aztec Gold99

He will go out of his way . The best lawyer in Sacramento!I don’t know what I would do without lawyer james.

Bryan

Very professional, understanding and willing to assist in any way he can. I am most definitely keeping James as my one stop shop lawyer.

Brad Naylor

I am so happy I found Mr. Arrasmith's law firm! I couldn't have been happier with my decision to hire James. He took my case from point A to point Z and kept me informed every step of the way. If I ever need an attorney...

Bryce Colburn

James is a wonderful addition to the legal community. He is hard working, bright and ethical. He goes the extra mile for his clients.

Caitlin Ross

He was a great attorney.

Devon Campbell

I contacted Mr. Arrasmith regarding a disability related inquiry for a family member. Mr. Arrasmith provided excellent and immediate responses to my questions. I felt as though he truly cared about the well being of my...

Anonymous

Great consultation, efficient, & positive attorney. I needed possession of my home, Mr. Arrasmith acted swiftly and was able to provide me the information I needed to understand what could have been a lengthy process...

Nadia

I had a few questions about my situation, I needed some legal advice so I went ahead and contacted the Arrasmith firm. James was very helpful and polite, I asked him about a dozen questions and will be pursuing llegal...

Amber

James is a great guy. He has helped me to start a very difficult case. That I was nervous to do. He has made me Confident that he will fight hard on my case.

Rachel

I am so happy I made a decision to hire James to help me with my case. He was very professional and assisted me every step of the way. I was able to get a very positive settlement on my case. I couldn’t be happier!

Ledi

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patty

James did a great job helping us with getting our settlement. Followed up in timely manners and updates always provided. Thank you for your help!

Anonymous

Gave James smith a call late at night with an immediate answer, he is very quick to respond and was eager to answer any questions I had.

Erika

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was great, he answered all my questions and was very helpful with my legal matter. Thanks again James.

Alvin

Mr. Arrasmith was cocounsel on a complex case, but was able persuade a notoriously bad judge to go along with the resolution. He’s a fine lawyer that works hard to make sure he is prepared to win the case. I highly...

James

I've had a lot of attorneys in my life, and James is by far the best attorney that I've ever hired. He helped me with my case from start to finish and clearly explained the process to me without making it overly complex...

Darren

James is a great lawyer! He is honest and very trustworthy. He will give you sound legal advice.

Jason Motto

Great service and customer service. Very professional too, thanks James and Maria!! Having a bilingual attorney who knows so many different aspects of the law is a BIG plus.

JC R

I found James online after an extensive search. He was knowledgeable and worked with me on a payment plan I could afford. I'm happy I picked him for dealing with my awful landlord. He helped me get the settlement I...

Jenn C

Lawyer James Arrasmith For me He very was very approachable and likeable as a person . I felt very comfortable with the knowledge, and information shared for our case. which we got desired result from. He to me is a...

John Davis

James is a wonderful lawyer and person! He is hardworking , ethical, quick and effective lawyer! He knows what he is doing.

Ka Saelee

James Arrasmith always does amazing job helping me with my landlord and tenant cases!! He is my go-to attorney when I need assistance in evicting tenants. I like how he also represents tenants as well as landlords - so...

Kerry Davis

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen Trexler

Best lawyer he will get the job done went out of his way totally

Larry Yabut

Mr. Arrasmith and his team are amazing. Mr. Arrasmith is very knowledgeable and has been amazing through our whole process. He treats people like a human being and not a paycheck, I would highly recommend him to...

Magan Mellinger

No one likes to need an attorney, but when you do, James is amazing to have in your corner! He is smart, professional, patient, and always makes sure his client is comfortable and confident with the next steps. I refer...

Kristen

I would highly recommend James. I did lots of research searching for a great Attorney in the area. He makes you feel hopeful during a difficult times. His knowledge and expertise was great!

Maria Guardado

I had a personal issue and needed to consult with a lawyer. James Arrasmith took his time to explain everything so that I could understand exactly what my options were and the best way to go about my next move. I would...

Mark Hodges

A Very Nice, Personable Attorney/Person!! He is Very Patient and Willing to Listen to My {Tour} Case/Problems>I would Highly Recommend James to Anyone Seeking Fair and Equitable Justice!! Mark, CA.

Mark Loeffler

Thank you Mr James for helping me. What a great attorney! If you need help call Mr Arrowsmith!

Marva Davis

I give James Arrowsmith Attorney at Law 5 stars not just because he supports and represents CAED (our Non- Profit Organization that works with children ) but also because of how decent a person I've found him ...

Marvell Wilson

I was sooooo nervous about my case until I called James. He literally made the entire process simple and easy for me. I cannot recommend him highly enough! He is the most amazing attorney I’ve ever had!

Peyton

James has helped me tremendously with my legal matter by going over all the forms with me and clearly explaining how to complete them. He has made everything easy for me. I am very glad I called James!

Patsa Hin-udom

I am Latina and my English is not very good, therefore the attorney made sure that there was an assistant who spoke Spanish and who translated everything he told me and answered all my questions. Excellent service, I...

Paula Barriga

James is fantastic! He answered all of my questions and gave me clear guidance. If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgable attorney, I highly recommend James. Amazing Lawyer!

peyton cooks

James has a very good heart. He takes his cases personally as if it was him. He is a very nice understanding guy

Rachel Ottley

James is very knowledgeable, professional, and dependable. He patiently guided me through my estate planning and pre-nuptial questions, and made both processes much easier for me to understand. Highly recommended.

Sanat Sahasrabudhe

James arasmith is an excellent attorney when I needed help or advice he was always there to answer my calls or emails a very kind person listens & cares.

Tariq Johnson

Thank you so much for being highly responsive. Making I understand every step of the process. As well as checking in with me before important decisions need to be made.

Tulsi Patel

Very friendly, personable, and professional. I was able to get through my legal issue relatively smoothly and had exceptional support through the entire process. Pricing was reasonable and the billing process was not...

V Cat

I had some legal questions, and contacted James Arrasmith Law firm. His response was quick, and very helpful.

vera vlasenko

I highly recommend James Arrasmith. He really listens to your needs & truly cares about his clients. He is very professional & provides great results!

Vicky Tisdale

Contact Us Now

CF-pic.png

(916) 704-3009