What are the benefits of being a de facto couple?

Common-law couples have some advantages compared to conventional marriages. However, there are also limitations that must be considered. Find out what its pros and cons are in this text.

The de facto couple, also known as concubinage, de facto union or free union, is a form of cohabitation legally recognized in multiple countries.. Every day more people prefer to have a common-law partner instead of getting married because of the opportunities and benefits it offers.

The term may be a bit confusing, but, in simple terms, it is the legal and stable union of two people who have not yet married. Common-law couples usually have a public cohabitation and a shared desire to start a family.

Although this type of union can have certain benefits, such as saving on costs of legal procedures, It is necessary to take into account all aspects before making the final decision. Do you want to know more about it? Keep reading!

Characteristics and requirements of the de facto couple

The de facto couple is a legally recognized form of cohabitation that offers benefits similar to marriage., but with certain differences. Determining whether you meet the legal requirements to be one may vary by jurisdiction.

Although the specific criteria may differ in each country or region, there are some common indicators that can help you determine if you are a common-law couple. Some of the characteristics and requirements are shown below.

Coexistence

One of the fundamental requirements in this type of union is coexistence. Couples must live together stably and demonstrate a long-term and committed relationship. Typically, you are expected to share a home and life together for a set period of time, which may vary depending on local law.

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Willfulness

The formation of a de facto couple must be a voluntary agreement between both parties. There should be no type of coercion or external pressure to establish this union. Both partners must agree to start and maintain the relationship in this way.

Absence of marriage

In most cases, couples who wish to be recognized as a common-law couple cannot be legally married to another person. Legislation typically requires that members have no valid marital ties to third parties.

Registration or formal declaration

Depending on the jurisdiction, it may be necessary to register or make a formal declaration to establish domestic partnership status. This involves submitting the required documentation and following the specific legal procedures established by local legislation.

Legal rights and obligations

By forming a de facto couple, the members can acquire certain legal rights and obligations similar to those of marriage. These may include aspects such as access to social security benefits, inheritance rights, joint medical and tax decision-making, among others.

It is important to research and understand the specific rights and responsibilities granted in your location.

It is crucial to keep in mind that The requirements and characteristics of the common-law couple may vary depending on the country and applicable legislation. Therefore, it is advisable to research and consult local laws to understand the specific requirements and benefits where you live.

Benefits of being a de facto couple

Being a de facto couple has a series of benefits that go beyond coexistence without marital formalities. This legally recognized status offers a variety of benefits that can improve your quality of life and protect your rights.

A study published in the journal Ibero-American legal news highlights that this union has advantages that, in ancient times, were only attributed to marriage. Among them the following stand out:

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Legal recognition and protection: Being a common-law couple gives you certain legal rights and protections similar to those of marriage. This may include rights in areas such as social security, inheritance, insurance, tax and health benefits, among others.Flexibility and autonomy: offers greater flexibility compared to traditional marriage. You can make your own rules and agreements without necessarily being bound by the laws and regulations of marriage. This allows the relationship to be adapted to the individual needs and preferences of the couple.Less formalities and costs: Unlike marriage, it involves fewer legal procedures and formalities. There is no ceremony or formal celebration required, saving time and money. In addition, the dissolution of a common-law partnership is usually simpler and less expensive than a divorce.Protection of children’s rights: If they have children together, the de facto couple can offer legal protection for parental rights and responsibilities, ensuring the well-being of the children and establishing clear agreements in the event of separation.

In short, being a common-law couple comes with numerous legal and practical benefits. Not only will you have legal recognition and protection in key areas, such as social security and inheritance, but You will also enjoy greater flexibility and autonomy to personalize your relationship, as noted in a book published by the BBVA Foundation.

You will avoid costly procedures and formalities, saving time and money compared to a traditional marriage.

Potential Disadvantages of Domestic Partnership

While domestic partnership offers a number of significant benefits, it is important to note that it can also come with certain disadvantages. Before deciding to opt for this form of union, it is essential to carefully consider the possible drawbacks that could arise:

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Legal limitations: Although it offers certain legal rights, these may not be as broad as those of marriage. Some aspects, such as social security or tax benefits, may be limited compared to married couples.International recognition: The validity of the common-law partnership may vary by country or jurisdiction. In some places, it may not be legally recognized, creating complications in situations such as moving to another country or obtaining certain legal benefits abroad.

If you are considering forming a de facto couple, It is crucial to carefully evaluate both the benefits and possible associated disadvantages. By weighing all of these considerations, you will be able to make an informed decision and find the type of union that best suits your individual needs and desires.

A union with multiple benefits and drawbacks

The common-law couple is an increasingly popular and legally recognized option for those who wish to share a life together without resorting to traditional marriage. Through its flexibility, legal recognition and protection, as well as its potential to establish personalized agreements, it offers significant benefits for engaged couples.

However, It is essential to research and understand the specific legal requirements and implications of your location to make an informed decision. Ultimately, whether you choose to be a common-law couple or opt for other forms of union, the most important thing is to find a relationship that fits your individual values, needs and desires.