Common Law Marriage in Wyoming
State-specific overview · Family Law
Wyoming recognizes common law marriage if the couple cohabits, intends to marry, and publicly holds themselves out as married.
How Wyoming treats Common Law Marriage
Wyoming permits common law marriage without formal ceremony or license. The couple must live together as spouses, mutually consent to the marriage, and represent themselves publicly as married. No minimum cohabitation period is specified in statute. A common law marriage in Wyoming is treated identically to a ceremonial marriage for all legal purposes, including divorce, property rights, and succession.
The general definition of Common Law Marriage
A marriage created by mutual agreement and cohabitation, without a formal ceremony or license.
Common law marriage is a legal marriage that exists without a wedding ceremony or marriage license, based simply on a couple's agreement to be married and their living together as spouses. Not all states recognize it, but those that do treat common law marriages the same as formal ones for purposes of property division, inheritance, and divorce. The couple must meet specific requirements, like living together for a certain period and presenting themselves publicly as married.
Read the full Common Law Marriage entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Wyoming.