There are legal reasons some do, in case of emergencies and what not. I don't have any interest in marriage.

When I got married it was for love. I wanted that piece of paper stating that the man I loved was my husband, my family. He was someone that I could share insurance with, a home, a life. We could apply for loans together, bank accounts, everything. Those aren't things you can do without a bunch of hoops and red tape if you don't have that little piece of paper between you.

Hey, I'm the resident marriage hater. Although I've been busy, but I've been back and... words! Anyway, the traditional answer is security and benefits businesses and the government give to couples. although there's some thought that young people don't hate or dislike marriage, but revere it. they consider it such a crucial step to adulthood that they never feel prepared for it and wait too long, at least too long to have children. Or perhaps this generation knows someone who's marriage failed and it involved money and they want to ensure they're financially ready to be married, but never are. there are lots of theories behind this and it's a complex issue. talk to me when i'm in a worse mood and I can really rant, tea does not help rantings, that's why America won the revolutionary war.

While love may be enough for the people in the relationship, it isn't enough for the government. Marriage affords some special legal rights to both people in the partnership that you do not get otherwise. (As everyone else has said.)

That's why I feel that gay marriage is a civil rights issue. Anyone who is not married to their partner will be denied certain rights at really crucial times.

Just my $0.02.

Legal reasons, there are bennifits you just can't get without being married, just like everyone else said.

It makes running out like a coward at the first sign of difficulties a hell of a lot harder.

Because I'm a hopeless romantic and I want marriage, children and happiness. It is something I WANT. I want the ring, the dress, the wedding and the reception. I want the vows and his last name. It means something very deep to me.

Well, for me love is enough!! I have been with my man for over 15 years, and we have 3 kids together. We are not married and have no intention of ever getting married. For me the piece of paper would cheapen our relationship just a bit.... we are together because we choose to be, not because we are contractually obligated. As far as legal things, we have never run into any difficulty in our lives as of yet. I suppose if we did, we may reconsider our views.