Common Law Marriage in Utah
Common law marriage in Utah is the recognition by the Courts that a relationship between a man and a woman is a legal and valid marriage even if no legal wedding ceremony--religious or civil--took place.
The Utah Code regarding common law marriage states that parties may petition the court to recognize a contract between a man and woman who
* are of legal age and capable of giving consent;
* are legally capable of entering a solemnized marriage under the provisions of this chapter;
* have cohabited;
* mutually assume marital rights, duties, and obligations; and
* who hold themselves out as and have acquired a uniform and general reputation as husband and wife.
The petition for recognition of common law marriage must be made during the relationship or within a year after the end of the relationship, including if one party dies.
The Utah State Law Library has a sample pleadings to petition the Court for a common law marriage. Call or e-mail if you would like a copy.
For more information about marriage in Utah, visit the Utah State Courts page on marriage.