Common Law Marriage & Financial Rights: What You Need to Know

Question
I HAVE BEEN WITH THIS GUY FOR 2 YEARS. ITS BEEN A VERY ABUSIVE REALATIONSHIP. IM THINKING OF LEAVIN. EVERYONE HAS SAID THATS WE ARE CONSIDERED COMMON LAW. I HAVE LOST EVERYTHING CAUSE OF HIM. SO I WONDERING IF I CAN TAKE HIM TO COURT AND HAVE HALF OF WHAT HE HAS. I HAVE  PLENTY OF WITNESSES SEEING ME BEING BEAT ,HIT THAT CAN TESTIFY . WHAT DO YOU THINK PLEASE HELP ME!

Answer
Hi Kathryn~

Common law marriage isn't a legal and binding marriage.  In fact, currently only 11 states even recognize it.  You'd have to ask someone that knows the law, and see if it even applies in your state.  You can find out by going to the circuit clerk of the court, in the county in which you reside.  He/She will be able to tell you if your state observes the common law marriage.  

Even if they don't, you can still sue him for property and belongings of yours through civil court.  And get a judgement against him, in order to replace your stuff.  This is where your witnesses would come in.