Meaning of legal wife

A "legal wife" refers to a woman who is legally married to a man according to the laws and regulations of their jurisdiction. A legal marriage is recognized by the state or government, granting the couple certain legal rights and responsibilities, such as inheritance rights, property rights, and the ability to make decisions on behalf of the spouse in case of incapacitation. The term "legal wife" is often used to distinguish a married woman from a partner in a non-legal or informal union.