When it comes to money I'm extremely old fashioned. I think I would have to have some sort of head trauma to have a joint account with a man to whom I wasn't married. Also, once married, I can't imagine anything but joint checking and joint savings.
Then again, I wouldn't marry someone who wasn't "financially" compatible. What I mean is that he handles his finances the same way. I don't care if you're stinking rich if you are reckless with the money.
My parents, afaik, have never had seperate accounts. My mom rarely worked after my older brother was born but she never had an allowance. They don't "consult" each other before making purchases. My parents both understand what they can and can't afford and have similar thoughts in regards to how low they're willing to let the balances get.
In fact, my dad just transfered a whole lot of money into money market accounts and my mom's acting like we need to go on food stamps because of the new checking account balance!
She of course is exagerating but my dad and I did have to remind her that the money's just in another account.
When a friend of mine told me his wife had asked him about buying a new mixer (~$200) I laughed because I thought he was kidding! I really thought only people in controlling and abusive relationships have allowances or had to ask their SO before making a purchase.
FWIW, I do agree that people need safety nets. But that should come in the form of a pre-nup! In community property states it doesn't matter how much you stash away in your personal account. Your spouse can still get half without that prenup!
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