Hi -- I'm an American citizen wishing to obtain a spouse visa to the UK. I'm marrying my boyfriend, a British citizen, in New York on Friday. I want to live permanently with him in London, and I hear that the standard process is to apply for a spouse visa at the British Embassy in New York and then just wait for my visa to come through. I'm already effectively living in the UK, though, going back and forth as a "visitor," and it would be much easier if I could apply for the spouse visa or the "further leave to remain" visa from here (London). Anyone know whether I can do that?

Thanks in advance!

No, you have to follow the procedures. If you can enter UK on visa waiver program, then you have to maintain your legal status, not overstay, as it may jeopardize your visa application.

There are a few exceptions, talk to the lawyer.