I know someone said this earlier in this thread but in some states, including my state of SC, a common law marriage is recognized. In turn, if the couple breaks up, the "spouses" can stake claims to the other's assets.

If he won't sign a pre-nup, then, I would probably be suspicious of his motives. I would think that he's more concerned with his assets than the relationship and this would be vice versa. I would expect a male partner to be suspicious of me if I made more than he and I wouldn't sign a pre-nup. It can go either way. I am all for common law marriages because lots of times marriage certificates can really screw up things. Once that piece of paper, the marriage license that is, is signed, all of a sudden, the pressure is on like a load of bricks. I think one should enjoy the relationship and sign a pre-nup. Otherwise, shape up or ship out.