noun
A type of marriage that is recognized in some jurisdictions based on the couple's cohabitation and holding themselves out as a married couple without a formal ceremony or marriage license.
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In some jurisdictions, a common law marriage is recognized as a legal marriage without the need for a formal ceremony.
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They've been living together for so long, it's basically a common law marriage at this point.
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They're not officially married, but they have a common law thing going on.
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Their partnership is like a common law marriage - not legally binding, but just as committed.