Does Texas Recognize Common Law Marriages?
Because many couples today cohabit and have children together without formally marrying, it is good to understand whether Texas recognizes their relationship as a legal marriage. Sixteen states recognize common law marriages. However, some states only provide recognition for marriages that occurred before a certain date. Texas recognizes informal marriages. There is no date that… Read More »
Texas Rulings on Same-Sex Marriages
As same-sex marriage moves into the national spotlight during presidential campaigns, you may be curious to know how Texas courts view same-sex marriage. Under the Texas Family Code, same-sex marriages are not legal. However, the issue has come up for review before the Texas judiciary various times: In 2010, The Statesman reported that Texas Attorney… Read More »
The Difference between Divorce, Annulment and Void Marriages
While divorce, annulment and void marriages all end a marriage, there are legal differences between the three. Divorce Divorce is appropriate for couples who were legally married and want to dissolve the marriage. Valid marriages under Texas law meet all legal requirements from the outset. Once the divorce is final, the courts still recognize that… Read More »