Definition of "Common Law Marriage"

A marriage deemed valid under some state laws which is created by an agreement to marry, followed by cohabitation between two people legally capable of making a marriage contract. Such a marriage requires a mutual agreement to enter into a marriage, cohabitation sufficient to establish the relationship of husband and wife, and an assumption of marital duties and obligations. The cohabitation requirement (e.g., the length of time the two people have to live together under the same roof) and other criteria defining a common law marriage may vary from state to state.