What defines a Common Law family?

A Common Law family is primarily characterized by an adult couple and their children living together without having formally entered into a legal marriage. This arrangement often reflects a cohabitation lifestyle where the couple shares domestic responsibilities and parenting duties, despite not having a marriage certificate to denote their partnership legally.

The term "Common Law" specifically applies to the recognition of couples as being in a family unit based on their living situation and mutual commitment, rather than through formal legal binding. This can also extend to aspects such as shared finances, emotional support, and parenting, which further solidifies their status as a family unit in sociological terms.

Such living arrangements have become increasingly common, reflecting changing social norms regarding marriage and family structures. Common Law families can exist in various configurations, and they may or may not choose to formalize their relationship through marriage in the future.