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Common-Law Marriage in Wisconsin: Essential Legal Insights from a Family Attorney

📜 Understanding Common-Law Marriage in Wisconsin In Wisconsin, common-law marriage is not legally recognized. This means that no matter how long a couple has lived together or presented themselves as married, they cannot gain marital rights without a formal marriage license and ceremony. However, if a couple established a common-law marriage in a state where it is legally recognized, Wisconsin courts may honor that union. In such cases, couples might have marital rights if they move to Wisconsin. 🏡 Legal Implications for Unmarried Couples Couples who live together without marrying may encounter legal difficulties in areas such as property division, inheritance rights, and medical decision-making. Unlike legally married couples, they do not have automatic legal protections, which can cause issues in the event of separation or death. 💡 Practical Advice: - Draft a cohabitation agreement to clarify financial responsibilities. - Use legally binding contracts for significant joint purch...