Utah does not automatically recognize a couple as being ‘common law’ married after a certain number of years. Instead, for a couple to qualify as common law, they must petition the court. Certain conditions must be met to qualify;
- The couple must be of legal age and able to give consent
- Both parties must be legally capable of entering a solemnized marriage
- The couple must live together and more
If all the qualifiers are met, a judge may allow a couple to be recognized as married without a ceremony. There is a time limit to petition the court. Please consult a Salt Lake City family law attorney.