What is a "meretricious relationship"?

Full question:

I was looking for some help on "meretricious relationship". For Washington State.

Category: Courts
Subcategory: Legal Definitions
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Washington

Answer:

Please see the information at the following links:

http://www.divorcenet.com/states/washington/wa_faq12

http://www.wflr.com/living_together.htm

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is a meretricious relationship?

A meretricious relationship is a romantic partnership that resembles marriage but is not legally recognized as such. These relationships can involve shared living arrangements, finances, and emotional support. In some jurisdictions, including Washington State, courts may consider various factors, such as the duration of the relationship and cohabitation, to determine property rights and responsibilities if the relationship ends.

How many years do you have to live together for common law marriage in Washington?

Washington State does not recognize common law marriage. Instead, it acknowledges meretricious relationships, which can have similar implications regarding property rights. To establish a meretricious relationship, the couple must demonstrate a committed partnership, but there is no specific duration required like in common law marriage.

What does meretricious relationship mean?

A meretricious relationship refers to a romantic partnership that is akin to marriage but lacks formal legal recognition. In Washington State, these relationships can impact property division during separation or divorce, as courts evaluate factors such as cohabitation, duration, and shared financial responsibilities to determine each party's rights.

What is a committed intimate relationship in Washington?

A committed intimate relationship in Washington is a partnership that involves emotional and physical intimacy, similar to marriage but without legal recognition. Courts may consider various factors, such as shared living arrangements and finances, to determine the rights of partners regarding property and support if the relationship ends.

How do you prove a committed intimate relationship in Washington State?

To prove a committed intimate relationship in Washington State, individuals can present evidence of shared living arrangements, financial interdependence, emotional support, and the duration of the relationship. Courts may also look at factors like cohabitation and mutual responsibilities to establish the relationship's legitimacy and determine property rights.