​Common Law Marriage: Is this legal in Oklahoma?

​Yes, Oklahoma recognizes Common Law Marriage.  Your marital status on income tax returns is something you should be aware of when it comes to Common Law Marriage.  If you have not been ceremonially married, and you say you are married on your tax returns, then you have represented under oath that you are married.  There are other factors to be considered by the court, and the existence of a Common Law Marriage must be established by the legal standard of clear and convincing evidence. 

Here are some other questions to think about:  Have you held yourself out to others as being married?  Do you have joint bank accounts?  Are you listed as spouses on any legal documents or employment related documents? 

​If you have met the criteria for establishing a Common Law Marriage, you are just as married as you would be if you had a ceremony, and you will have to file for Divorce to dissolve the marriage.  If you have any questions about your individual case and whether you may actually be married in the eyes of the court, please contact the office for more information.