In California, how long must a couple live together to have a common law marriage recognized?

In California, common law marriage is not recognized at all. This means that simply living together for a certain period of time does not grant couples the legal status of marriage. Instead, a couple must go through the formal process of marrying, which typically involves obtaining a marriage license and having a ceremony. Other states may recognize common law marriages under specific criteria and durations, but California’s legal framework does not provide for such recognition. This absence is important for individuals needing legally enforceable rights, such as property division or spousal benefits, as unmarried partners do not automatically receive those protections.