Stein v. Stein

Nana Stein (plaintiff) and John Stein lived together in Missouri for about 15 months, holding themselves out as husband and wife without formally marrying. During a three-week bus tour that passed through Pennsylvania -- which does recognize common-law marriage, unlike Missouri -- Nana claimed she and John exchanged rings and vows. After John died, Nana sued his estate (defendant) to be recognized as his surviving spouse and claim a spouse's statutory allowances. The trial court denied recognition of a common-law marriage, and Nana appealed.