18-118-1 Legal Aspects of Marriage

18-218-2 Legal Aspects of Divorce

Chapter 18 1

CHAPTER 18

MarriageMarriage is a legal union of a man and woman as husband and wife.

When a marriage proposal is accepted, a binding contract results.

State laws set minimum age for marriage without parental consent.

Cohabitation is legal in Colorado.

Chapter 18 2

1. When a marriage proposal is accepted, a binding contract results.

2. If both later agree to end their engagement, the contract is annulled – the annulled – the agreement is void. (problems from the agreement is void. (problems from the very beginning).very beginning).

3. Voidable marriage - spouse lying about a past marriage, age, wealth A voidable marriage can be annulled – a court order that cancels a marriage.

Chapter 18 3

$20 revenue marriage license (no waiting period)

18 is legal, 16 parental consent, under 16 you need a court order

No blood test or physical exam License expires 30 days from date of issue Common-law marriage

Chapter 18 4

#1 Duty: Parental rights and duties Adoption Emancipation

Property rights and duties Pre-Nup Post-Nup

Chapter 18 5

A marriage may end several ways:

1.Death of either spouse2.Annulment (legal vs. religious)3.Void Marriage - Bigamist4.Divorce (Dissolution)

Irreconcilable Differences

Chapter 18 6

No-fault divorce State divorce laws

Separation – 90% Issues to be resolved:

Division of property – age, $, contributions to marriage

Parenting time and Decision Making (Custody and visitation)

Maintenance (Alimony) – set by court

Chapter 18 7