MSU Extension Discusses Estate Planning Aspects of Common Law Marriages

A MontGuide published by Montana State University Extension aims to help residents understand the ins and outs of common law marriage.

In Montana, a common law marriage means two partners could be considered as being married even if they have not gone through a legal ceremony or signed a marriage contract, according to Marsha Goetting, Extension family economics specialist.

The Montana Supreme Court has established three elements for creating a common law marriage, she said, and anyone asserting the existence of a common law marriage must prove the three elements in district court.

First, the...