Living together without marriage is common, but you may wonder what rights you have as an unmarried couple in Arkansas. This blog breaks down what protections and limitations apply to unmarried partners to help you understand your legal standing.
Understanding legal recognition
Arkansas does not recognize common-law marriage, meaning unmarried couples don’t automatically have the same legal rights as married couples. Without a formal marriage license, you won’t have access to certain state protections related to property, inheritance, or decision-making. This lack of recognition can create challenges when dealing with legal matters.
Property and finances
Unmarried couples must be proactive about their property and financial agreements. Arkansas law treats each person as an individual, so shared property usually doesn’t belong to both partners unless both names are on the title or agreement. Consider creating contracts that clearly outline property ownership, debts, and financial responsibilities to avoid disputes.
Parental rights
If you have children together, parental rights depend on biology and legal agreements. For unmarried fathers, establishing paternity is crucial for custody and visitation rights. Without legal acknowledgment, parental rights can be limited. Both parents should work on custody arrangements and support agreements to protect their children’s well-being and ensure stability.
Medical and legal decisions
Unmarried partners do not automatically have the right to make medical or legal decisions for each other. To ensure you can act on your partner’s behalf, consider preparing powers of attorney and healthcare directives. These documents give you authority to make decisions in emergencies.
What you can do to protect yourself
You can protect your relationship by drafting agreements like cohabitation contracts, wills, and powers of attorney. These documents clarify your intentions and provide protections similar to those of married couples. Taking these legal steps offers peace of mind and helps secure your interests.
Understanding your rights as an unmarried couple helps you plan better and avoid surprises. Taking legal steps can secure your interests and your family’s future.