<prompt> Human: My girlfriend is in a lot of medical debt, which has ruined her credit. Were willing to not get legally married when we get married if it makes it easier to buy houses etc. in the future. Does anyone know how this works? Thanks in advance.  <response>: Talk to a lawyer before you do anything. In my state, when you get married, her bill collectors can come after you. Had this happen to a buddy of mine twice his choices in women is poor. 