A Very Interesting Definition of Spouse
There has been much discussion during the last few years over the definition of marriage and what constitutes a spouse. One common thread in all these discussions has been the extent to which people have the right to self-declare a spouse. After all, how can a person be married unless they have declared someone to be their spouse? That is until now.
In an interesting twist on the definition of a spouse, a Florida man argued that he does not have to pay his ex-wife alimony because she is cohabiting with someone else. The ex-wife does not agree. What makes this case unusual is the fact the woman is serving a nine-year jail term on a drunk-driving related charge. As reported by United Press International, the husband has successfully argued in court that his ex-wife’s cellmate constitutes a cohabitant (effectively a spouse) and therefore he does not owe alimony. Surprisingly, the judge agreed. This judgment, if it stands up under appeal, could have a significant legal impact on the concept of marriage and what constitutes a spouse.
Categories: [December 2008] [evolving trends] [family issues] [US]