Common Law Marriage

Information on common law marriage from the Erie County Bar Association.

As of January 2, 2005, individuals were no longer able to enter into common law marriages in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. However, those common law marriages properly entered into before this date remain valid.

A common law marriage, although not formalized through a structured ceremony and marriage license, is considered a valid marriage provided it met the requirements set forth by Pennsylvania law, and provided that the requirements were met prior to January 2, 2005. (2023)

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