Divorce

Common Law Marriage

In Washington State, a couple cannot enter into a common law marriage. If the couple moved to Washington from a state that does allow for common law marriage, than Washington will recognize it.

Common Law Divorce

If a couple that has a common law marriage that began in another state but then moved to Washington and decided they wanted to divorce, their marriage is eligible for divorce. Now, while their marriage might have began differently than those who enter into a typically legal marriage, this does not mean their divroce will be different also. Therefore, there is no such thing as common law divorce. A divorce of a couple who is common law married is a legal divorce like any other.

If you find yourself in a common law marriage and have questions about your situation and your rights, contact us.

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