Legal Question in Family Law in New York

I'm a 46 year old female. Back some 20 years ago, I was dating a man for several years and on a moments notice, we went and eloped at a New York City hotel. I did not get a marriage license or a copy of the marriage certificate because he took it.

Is this type of elopement a valid marriage because, I had thought it was just a formality in order for us to stay at the hotel and, I have never filed a married status with the IRS. Also, if I am his wife, am I considered a beneficiary and entitled to his death benefits?

Thank you.


Asked on 10/12/09, 9:50 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Kristen Browde Browde Law, P.C.

If you had a license and were married by someone with the authority to perform a marriage, you are married. "Went and eloped" does not provide enough information to determine whether that took place.

You should be able to get a copy of your marriage license from the agency that issued it. A copy of the marriage certificate should be available from whoever performed the marriage.

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Answered on 10/17/09, 10:13 am


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