Cohabitation: Civil Ramifications

It is also interesting that even civilly these living-together relationships are being considered quite seriously, with all sorts of consequences. In many states a man and woman who set up house over a period of years might be recognized as possessing a common law marriage. In some states, like Virginia, cohabitation is still against certain statutes and is considered criminal. In addition, where children are the fruits of such unions, paternity suites illustrate that the lack of a marriage contract cannot entirely dissolve legal responsibilities; however, more leg work might be involved in protecting their interests. Even alimony is being required after some of these less formal relationships are broken. However, these informal unions still do not provide adequate support for their mutual security or family life.