When you share a home, children, and finances with a partner, you may feel like a married couple in every way that matters. Florida family law, however, draws a sharp legal line between marriage and cohabitation. If you die without a will, that distinction determines...
Unmarried Couples
Can you get spousal support in a common-law marriage in Florida?
You shared a home, combined finances and built a life together. Now that relationship has ended, you wonder if you qualify for financial support despite never being officially married. But here is a hard truth: Florida does not recognize common-law marriages. Thus,...
Can unmarried partners adopt a child together in Florida?
Many couples build strong, loving relationships without getting married. For some, the next step is expanding their family through adoption. If you and your partner live in Florida and want to adopt together, it helps to understand how the law treats unmarried couples...
Can unmarried partners make medical decisions for each other?
When a loved one falls ill or faces a medical emergency, the ability to make decisions for them can be critical. For unmarried couples, however, this question is more complicated than it might seem. The legal rights surrounding medical decisions for unmarried partners...
Can you name your partner in your will without being married?
Marriage is not a requirement for including someone in your will. In Florida, you have full discretion to name any individual as a beneficiary, whether that person is a romantic partner, close friend, or acquaintance. For those in long-term but unmarried...
How can unmarried couples handle debts after splitting up?
Ending a relationship is emotionally difficult, but dividing shared financial responsibilities can add another layer of stress. For unmarried couples in Florida, there's no legal framework that automatically allocates debt after a separation. That means you'll need to...
How does the law view shared property for unmarried couples?
Unmarried couples often face challenges when it comes to dividing shared property. Unlike married couples, who are protected by marriage laws and can use divorce procedures to divide assets, unmarried couples lack legal safeguards. Understanding how the law views...
Can a birth certificate jeopardize your parenthood?
The moment you become a father is life-changing. You want to protect and provide for your child, but legal hurdles may arise, especially if you are not married to the mother. Understanding your rights is essential for maintaining a strong relationship with your child...
Are unmarried couples eligible for spousal support?
Unmarried couples who have been in long-term relationships may wonder if they are eligible for spousal support or alimony after separating. Since they were not legally married, the rules differ significantly from those applied to married couples. Understanding the...
Do unmarried parents have to inform when moving with their child?
In Florida, parental relocation with a child involves specific rules and regulations. This is true for parents who never got married. Understanding these requirements is important to avoid legal issues and ensure the best interests of the child. Legal custody and...

