Common law marriages are not recognized in every state, but where they are, you can file paperwork with the appropriate family court to dissolve the union. A common law marriage refers to a union in which a wedding ceremony never took place. A common law marriage occurs when a couple resides in the same home together for a set number of years. If a common law marriage is recognized within your state, there is paperwork which you can file that works to dissolve the union. This paperwork is generally like divorce paperwork and addresses issues such as property division, child custody, child support, spousal support and child visitation rights. If you would prefer not to file legal paperwork, couples can also attempt to go through mediation to resolve issues outside of the court room, or without filing for a legal divorce.