Full question:
Is common law marriage recognized in Ohio? Under what circumstances?
- Category: Marriage
- Date:
- State: Ohio
Answer:
Common law marriage in Ohio is valid only for marriages entered into before October 10, 1991. After this date, new common law marriages are not allowed.
The six essential elements for a valid common law marriage in Ohio are:
- A mutual agreement to marry, made by individuals who are legally competent to marry.
- Cohabitation, which includes sexual consummation of the marriage.
- Publicly holding themselves out as husband and wife.
- Having a reputation in the community as a married couple.
- That the common law marriage was established before October 10, 1991.
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.