Hello, misspretty. Most every reason posed to show marriage is not that big a deal when you are already in a good relationship may be used to support getting married. If the relationship is so good, why not get married?

Happy Mother's Day. Is the father's name on the birth certificate? Who brought what property into the relationship? Who owns the property you have acquired through your joint efforts in the ralationship? Are both of your names on any joint debt? Can he clean out joint accounts and a high-tail it? Who owns the vehicles? Do you have insurance? Who are named as beneficiaries?

In my time practicing law I seen how devastating it is if one of the live-togethers gets happy feet, takes the car and money and leaves the other destitute with a baby to feed. Do you think it cannot happen to you?

Most states recognize what is called a common law marriage after a period of time. If you do not get married, what will qualify as a common law marriage and what rights to the individuals have?

Yes, many divorces get down and dirty, but you have more rights than you do when you simply are living together.

Love is grand and everyone expects to live happily ever after. Sure!

Whatever you decide make sure you get your name on some titles and accounts and the father's name on the child's birth certificate. Learn all you can about what your current rights are and if your state recognizes common law marriages.

Frankly, your friend changing his mind makes me think he thinks he has a good thing going and an escape hatch to boot.

Good luck.