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Common-Law Marriage in Maryland: Legal Rights, Claims, and Advice from a Family Attorney

Common-Law Marriage in Maryland

⚖️Understanding Common-Law Marriage in Maryland

Maryland does not recognize common-law marriages. This means that even if a couple lives together for many years and presents themselves as married, they do not have the legal rights of a married couple unless they were legally married in another jurisdiction that recognizes common-law marriage.

📜Legal Rights of Unmarried Partners

  • 🏠Property Rights: Unmarried partners do not automatically share property ownership. If assets are in one person’s name, the other may have no claim to them.
  • 💰Financial Support: There is no legal obligation for financial support after separation, unlike in a legal divorce where alimony may be awarded.
  • 🩺Healthcare Decisions: Unmarried partners do not have automatic rights to make medical decisions unless designated through a healthcare proxy or power of attorney.
  • 👶Parental Rights: If children are involved, paternity must be established for custody, visitation, and child support claims.

⚔️Common Legal Claims by Unmarried Partners

  • 📑Breach of Contract: If there is an agreement regarding financial support, property ownership, or other commitments, a lawsuit may be filed for breach of contract.
  • 🏡Property Disputes: Partners who contributed financially to property that is solely titled in the other person’s name may file claims for reimbursement.
  • 💼Unjust Enrichment: One partner may claim that the other unfairly benefited from financial contributions made during the relationship.
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Child Custody and Support: Parents can seek legal custody, visitation rights, and financial support for their children, even without a formal marriage.

⚖️Lawsuits and Litigation Strategies

  • 📜Written Agreements: Creating cohabitation agreements can protect both partners' rights regarding property, finances, and responsibilities.
  • 🔍Evidentiary Proof: Keeping records of financial contributions, shared expenses, or verbal agreements can strengthen legal claims.
  • 🤝Mediation and Settlement: Many disputes can be resolved through mediation instead of lengthy court battles.
  • 📝Legal Representation: Consulting a family law attorney ensures a clear understanding of legal options and helps navigate potential claims.

💵Possible Compensation for Unmarried Partners

  • 💰Reimbursement: A partner who contributed financially to household expenses or property purchases may recover costs.
  • 🏠Equitable Distribution: Courts may grant an interest in property under certain claims like unjust enrichment.
  • 🔁Palimony: While Maryland does not recognize palimony by default, contractual agreements for financial support may be enforceable.
  • 👶Child Support: A parent may seek financial support for their child even without a formal marriage.

🛠️Practical Advice for Protecting Your Rights

  • ✍️Create Written Agreements: Draft a cohabitation agreement specifying asset division and financial responsibilities.
  • 📑Establish Beneficiary Designations: Ensure life insurance policies and retirement accounts name the intended beneficiary.
  • 📜Sign Powers of Attorney: Assign healthcare and financial decision-making authority in case of emergencies.
  • 🔄Keep Financial Records: Document shared expenses and financial contributions to avoid disputes.

🏛️Seeking Legal Assistance from a Family Attorney

A family law attorney can provide critical advice for protecting your rights, drafting agreements, filing legal claims, and representing you in disputes. Whether you need assistance with property disputes, child custody cases, or financial compensation claims, consulting an experienced lawyer ensures the best possible outcome.

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