Common Law Vs. Ceremonial Marriage

Common law marriage vs. marriage

Marriage is a sacred relationship between individuals that is based on legal standing. There are two types of marriages.

Common law -

Common law isn't accepted in all states, though at one time it was. Times have changed in the last several years. This marriage doesn't require any legal documents to be considered common law. A relationship with this status just needs to be living together for some time before it is a valid common law marriage.

In some states, the length of time to live together is usually more than two years. The states that still recognize this marriage are Oregon, District of Columbia and South Carolina.

Marriage -

A marriage is often referred as a ceremonial marriage, which requires a few things before it is valid. Ceremonial marriages are big or small events. A couple that elopes is still considered to be a ceremonial marriage.

Licenses - A license is a certificate stating the marriage is legal and valid. It must be signed and sent over to be recorded with the courts. The license is just a sheet of paper that is legal and valid. This legal document is a contract.

Witnesses - The county and state require one or two witnesses to be present. These witnesses must also the certificate to make it valid. Witnesses are there to witness the ceremony and to give support to the married couple.

Whether you are common law or ceremonial "relationships," they are still sacred. To some people, a marriage is just a piece of paper. A marriage, common law or ceremonial, is more than just a piece of paper. It is based on love and compassion.

Marriages are not something that should be taken lightly. Love and devotion are twists of fate weaved into the marriage. Do you want to be married but not deal with an ugly aftermath? Then common law marriage may be your better option.

Check with your local state office to see if this marriage is recognized. Even if it isn't, you still can consider yourself common law. You just won't be able to receive the legal benefits of marriage.

What will you choose, common law marriage or ceremonial marriage? The choice is yours. Just make the decision that best fits you and your lifestyle.