Have you shared a home with your partner for a significant amount of time and have decided to separate? You may be wondering if you are in what the state of Texas refers to as a common law marriage. Texas is considered a community property state, which means even if you have not gone through a legal marriage, there are still certain rights, especially when it comes to property division, that the state of Texas recognizes. The attorneys at Renken Law Firm are here to help you enforce and protect your legal rights after separating from your common law spouse. This can be an especially difficult case to handle without legal representation. If you have any questions or concerns involving your separation, property division, or custody, contact our office today. We work with our clients to help them protect the best interest of themselves and their family.
Am I in a Common Law Marriage?
Whenever you are trying to determine if you are in a common law marriage in Texas, you must meet the following requirements:
-A declaration of marriage signed by both parties or the couple presents themselves to others as a married couple.
If you are unsure if your relationship qualifies as a common law marriage in the state of Texas, contact our law office today. We can help you to understand your options moving forward and get you the long term results you are looking for in your case.
Common Law Divorce
For couples who do meet the requirements for common law marriage, a divorce in the state of Texas will come with the same rights and responsibilities, as those who are participants in a traditional marriage. The main element that separates a common law divorce from a traditional divorce is that you must first be able to prove your relationship met the standards of a common law marriage. Our team can help you to prove your relationship qualifies as a common law marriage, allowing you the same rights as in a traditional divorce.
The Statute of Limitations in Common Law Divorce Claims
Parties involved in a traditional marriage can choose to file for a divorce at any time they wish. In common law marriages, there is a statute of limitation that states couples have two years after the relationship ends to file their divorce claim. It is best to not delay and take action immediately following the end of the relationship, in order to best protect your rights and be granted a fair case.
Houston Family Law Attorneys
Renken Law Firm is here to help couples who wish to dissolve their marriage, whether that be through divorce or legal separation. We are here to help those who are ending marriages that have been contested, uncontested, or collaborative. We are fully prepared to help you navigate the specifics of your case. All marriages are different, making each divorce equally unique with its own set of needs that must be addressed. Contact our law office to explore your options moving forward, and find out how we can help you.
Renken Law Firm, PLLC
11500 Northwest Fwy #618
Houston, TX 77092
(713) 956-6767
https://therenkenlawfirm.com