Ending a Common Law Relationship

[lawfacts]

If a couple in Texas may have entered into a common law marriage that is not registered with the state, and have children, and are breaking up, should they get divorced? Or can they simply separate and regard themselves as never having been married?

[Mr. Knowitall]

They should discuss their case in detail with a family lawyer in their state.

With children involved, the parents will likely end up in court for a custody and support order. It would not be much more involved to do that as part of a divorce case, ensuring that any marriage is properly terminated and that they are legally free to remarry.