Hello,
I'm about to enter into a common-law marriage (no papers, just private ceremony with family, and we will declare ourselves married).
I went through a divorce from a 'proper' marriage before, and was hit hard financially because I had to buy my wife out of the house we bought while married.
Now, I am the sole owner of my house and all my property. Although I hope that this common law marriage will not end, I am worried about what will become of my property should it happen.
She won't change her name, and we will keep separate bank accounts, credit cards, etc.
Can anyone tell me what I can expect if this CL marriage were to end?
Specifically, what would become of all the property I owned beforehand (house, car, etc)? Is it necessary to get a pre-nup to protect myself?
Thanks