Originally posted by Squiddie My namorada put a ring on her finger and when I came she gave me one (with some trepidation if I would accept wearing it.) She had unilaterally pronounced me her "marido" starting from few months into our relationship. In most cases I think the recommendation is to be cautious if the woman pressures you into a marriage. In this case, she just loves to exchange words and signs of commitment. An actual marriage ceremony isn't really what she had ever asked or even fantasized about. But then, in Brazil, we always need to be mindful of the common-law marriage (união estavel) which might bind us sooner than we want to. See my other 2 threads on união estavel and alimony under Getting Married for more on that.

Well, união estavel is not really related to 2 years at all by any law (it was once 5, but since novo Codigo Civil there is no more any minimum duration), it just has to be durable and continuous living together, etc. with some restrictions, etc. I believe I was not in one, until now, but now I have to make precautions. I am just working on my dissertation on this over on the Getting Married section.

However, with my girl, the ring was a purely emotional thing. She is not after any legal scheme. Of course she would like me to take care of her and take care of me going forward. We're still in the middle of figuring it out.

Edited by Squiddie - 29 May 2012 at 22:23