DEAR ABBY: So many people rely on what you write that I am writing to you to ask you to please print a correction in your inclusion of Georgia in the list of states allowing common-law marriage.
Common-law marriages created prior to Jan. 1, 1997, may be upheld, but those after that date will not. We do not want anyone to begin living with another under the assumption that their union will become legal. -- KIPLING LOUISE MC VAY, JUDGE, CHEROKEE COUNTY PROBATE COURT, CANTON, GA.
DEAR JUDGE MC VAY: I was unaware that Georgia changed its requirements for common-law marriage last year -- as were my library researchers. Thank you for pointing this out. In my own defense, let me say that I advised any couple considering common-law marriage to consult an attorney before assuming that their union is legal and binding.