Newspaper Page Text
Rules of engagement
Q. Is there any law about who gets
to keep the engagement ring when
two people decide to break up?
N.S., Ohio
A . No, there isn’t any
*"*’ specific law; but you
can sue to keep or get
■Kg'/ back —an engagement
w j ring after a breakup.
By Here is the unroman-
DENNIE tic bottom line, accord-
HUGHES i n g to lawyers: “An en
gagement ring is a lot like a deposit in
consideration for the promise (aka con
tract) of marriage,” says Miami lawyer
Jonathan Parker. That means whoever
breaks off the engagement is not enti
tled to the ring, because that person has
broken the agreement. If the decision
to split is mutual or the ring is a family
heirloom, it should be returned. And,
when it comes to that heirloom diamond
or setting, consider saving it for the wed
ding band instead. It’s a safer bet that
it will stay in the family.
Want to keep your
engagement on the
fast track to the al
tar? First, make sure
you’ve both discussed
getting engaged and
that you are both on
the same page about
your future. The only
surprise should be
When it comes
to the ring,
a proposal is
an unwritten
contract Break it,
and you lose it.
the way the ring is presented, not that
it’s being offered. Popping the question
out of nowhere may elicit a confused
“yes” and put your relationship on a
shaky foundation.
Lawyers even suggest that you write a
list of engagement expectations together.
If cheating is a deal-breaker, make sure
it’s clear to both of you. (Legally, “cheat
ing” is not a legitimate reason to termi
nate an engagement and keep the ring;
it only comes into play after marriage.)
This list is not a legal document, but it
could help if you do ultimately end up in
court. I say, if you’re that nervous about
the relationship, end it! ca
Send questions to Denote Hughes
at usaweekend.com.
USA WEEKEND • Dec 28-30,2007
Ik* ..
Tips
33
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