Quote:
Originally Posted by gdoh
is there a way around the common law thing so you dont get fucked if things go sour and she wants to take you stuff??
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Common law does not legally entitle one spouse to the other spouses assets, it's not like marital assets which are divided equally (In most cases). Same goes for the debts, unless of course you both signed for the debt in question.
Common law after three years or with a child, can be grounds for spousal support but the spouse needs to establish an entitlement to spousal support, and income disparity alone will likely not lead to an order to pay spousal support.
For me, I split my bills with her, did not support her, and we have virtually no shared assets since I bought everything.
Also be careful if you let your spouse drive your vehicle, it can be considered a family assets and even if she did not contribute to the purcahse or maintenance of the vehicle, it is possible that she can claim entitlement to it.
Married or Common Law Marriage? What Happens after Breakup: Divorce, Child Custody and Child Support
The above is a nice summary of the difference between married and common law separations.