Common Law Relationship Criteria

Summary

In Ontario, common-law status generally requires cohabitation in a conjugal relationship for at least three years. Based on your information, they may not meet this requirement as they have lived together for a little over a year. However, each case can be unique, so professional legal advice may be beneficial.

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I am looking to see if a relationship constitutes as common law.
Hello ****, in Ontario, a relationship is considered common-law if you have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least three continuous years. Could you confirm how long you have been living together?
My dad and girlfriend have been together for over 20 years. They have never resided in the same residence. He purchased a house separate from his to live in as he did not want to live with her. He is now having some major health issues and has been staying with her for over a year as she is helping take care of him. The only reason they are living together now is for the care. This has been going on for a little over a year. Is this considered common law?
In Ontario, common-law status generally requires cohabitation in a conjugal relationship for at least three years. Based on your information, they may not meet this requirement as they have lived together for a little over a year. However, each case can be unique, so professional legal advice may be beneficial.