Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

How to prove common-law of Pa. for NJ+

My ''dad'' passed away suddenly this week at 82 years of age. He and my biolological mom aged 68 have lived together in NJ, as husband and wife, since 1983. For extended periods of time during that time span they cohabitated in my Pa. residence as well as motels in the state, as husband and wife. They held the premise that they were married in one another's eyes, shared the same bed, referred to offspring as their own, paid bills together, and were viewed by the mutual families (as well as the public) as husband and wife. How do we prove this union for the sake of the legal implications of my now widowed mom? Social security benefits in particular. Any info anyone can provide will be appreciated.


Asked on 10/19/03, 4:44 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Bruce Matez Gerstein Grayson, LLP

Re: How to prove common-law of Pa. for NJ+

New Jersey does not recognize common law marriages. You'd have to consult with an elder law and estate attorney regarding Social Security and estate issues. If you would like a referral, I would be happy to refer you to an attorney who handles those matters. So sorry for your loss.

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Answered on 10/20/03, 11:50 am


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