Understanding Common-Law Marriage in Tennessee: A Comprehensive Guide Tennessee does not recognize common-law marriage. This is a crucial point to understand right from the start. However, Tennessee courts will recognize a valid common-law marriage established in a state that does permit it, if the couple later moves to Tennessee. This principle is based on the legal concept of "comity," where one state respects the laws and judicial decisions of another. Key Takeaway: Tennessee Itself Does Not Allow Common-Law Marriage Let's reiterate: you cannot establish a common-law marriage by simply living together in Tennessee, regardless of how long you live together or how you present yourselves to the public. Recognizing a Valid Out-of-State Common-Law Marriage in Tennessee If you believe you entered into a valid common-law marriage in a state that recognizes it and have since moved to Tennessee, you might be entitled to certain rights and benefi...
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