[USFRIENDINVICTORIA]

"Myth 1: If I am married by common law, it won’t affect my legal rights after a break-up, right?

Wrong. You could be subjected to the same claims for property division or maintenance (alimony), as you would face in a traditional divorce. "

From: "Top 10 Myths About Common Law Marriage"

http://www.divorcenet.com/states/colorado/co_art09

[lonevoice]

I remember the Maglica case from back when Court TV used to televise trials in 1994. The jury awarded the common-law wife $85 Million. It was reversed on appeal and settled out of court for $29 Million. link