Valentine's Day Engagements and Legal Marriage

Valentine's Day brings plenty of engagements, but what if you never make it to Town Hall to sign that marriage certificate?

Rhode Island Recognizes Common Law Marriage

Rhode Island is one of the few states that still recognizes common law marriage, meaning a couple could be considered married without ever saying "I do."

The Challenge of Proving Common Law Marriage

But here's the catch: proving a common law marriage exists can be long, costly, and complicated. The Court looks at how you hold yourself to the community, including:

• How you file taxes
• Whether you list each other on insurance policies
• What you tell friends and family about your relationship status

Make Your Marriage Official

If your intent is to be married, make it official. The signature on that marriage certificate can save years of legal uncertainty later.