define common law wife
A valid common law marriage in Texas is where a man and woman become husband and wife without getting a marriage license and having a marriage ceremony. Once established, a common law marriage has the same legal effect as a ceremonial marriage. To have a common law marriage in the state, you must do three things: (1) Agree to be married. (2) Live together as husband and wife, and. (3) Told others (hold yourselves out) that you are married.