what is the difference between a handfasting and a marriage?
The difference is legalities. If you are handfasted in a commonlaw relationship that is recognized as a committed relationship by the community, and decide to separate, the financial consequences may not be as drastic or severe as when one is legally married and seeking a divorce. As well, in common-law/handfasting relationships inheritance for minor children in the event of death of a parent may be affected differently than those of children within a legally recognized marriage. How tax laws are applied may also depend upon whether or not the couple is common law, or legally married. Legally married, whether by church or by JP means the person officiating the nuptials is state recognized and sanctioned to conduct such ceremonies and keep track of the necessary paperwork. Failure to properly submit the necessary paperwork to Vital stats etc can carry huge penalties.
