After my husband’s death, I was shocked to discover that we were never married and that I cannot claim the inheritance.

“What are you talking about?” I asked. “We got married in 1997. I have photos. I have the dress stored in my closet.”

Close-up of a woman’s face | Source: Midjourney

Her expression was pained. “I’m sorry, ma’am, but legally, you were never married. We’ve searched every database and every county record. Your marriage certificate was never filed with the state. Without a marriage certificate or a will naming you as a beneficiary, you have NO RIGHT TO HER ESTATE.”

The room tilted. I grabbed the arms of the chair to steady myself.

“That’s impossible,” I said. “We had a ceremony. We had witnesses. We’ve been together for 27 years! How can you say we weren’t married?”