Our blogs typically discuss divorce and what options you have on a family law level. However, did you know that there are other alternatives to a traditional marriage? There have been many cultural changes over the years that led to these very important matters on unions. Today we will discuss some of these alternatives and what they mean.
Marriage Alternatives
Cohabitation: This is a very unstructured way for a couple to unite. Two people involved with one another choose to live together with no legal tag on their relationship. If they decide that their relationship is not walking out, either party can just walk away. You will still have a right to have your case heard in court if you split and have matters to solve regarding custody, visitation, or child support. You may choose to go forth with a “cohabitation agreement,” but aside from this, you can enter into cohabitation at any time.
Common Law Marriage: Couples in this status choose to live together like a married couple without actually being viewed as married. However, to enter into common law marriage, you must still be of legal age to marry, be of sound mind, and not be married to anybody else.
Domestic Partnerships: This is a way to enter into something that is structured like a marriage and offers you benefits, but is not the same as marriage. It allows for things like being added to an insurance plan, entitlement to receive benefits through inheritance, and the ability to make medical decisions for a partner. In California, if you are in a domestic partnership, you receive all the same rights and benefits as a married couple.
Civil Unions: These are a lot like domestic partnerships; however, they are not available in as many states as a domestic partnership. They were developed as a way to address same-sex relationships and give rights to those who were in them.
These days, we see many types of marriage in many different situations. Because of this, it is important to know how your chosen option works. If you have questions, give us a call today. We can answer all of your marriage, divorce, custody, and other family law questions.