What is the standard for establishing a long-term relationship?

Despite the majority's exaggerated fears of unpredictable and inconsistent results, the proposed standard would not be applied in a conceptual vacuum. As the court in Butcher v. Superior Court (1983) 139 Cal.App.3d 58, 188 Cal.Rptr. 503 observed, evidence of the stability and significance of a relationship can be demonstrated by reference to several objective factors, including "the duration of the relationship; whether the parties have a mutual contract; the degree of economic cooperation and [46 Cal.3d 284] entanglement; exclusivity of sexual relations; [and] whether there is a 'family' relationship with children." (P. 70, 188 Cal.Rptr. 503.) The court might also consider how the couple represents their relationship to family, friends, neighbors and coworkers; and correspondingly, how they are viewed by others.