Marriage and Family Law Vocab

Will

A legal document that specifies a person's wishes regarding the distribution of their property and assets after their death.

Emancipated

A minor who is legally freed from parental control and granted independence.

Family

A basic social unit consisting of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption, often living together and sharing economic and emotional support.

Marriage

A legally recognized union between two individuals that establishes rights and obligations between them, including legal, social, and economic responsibilities.

Incest

A sexual relationship or marriage between close relatives, which is illegal in many jurisdictions.

Bigamy and Polygamy Difference

Bigamy refers to the act of marrying one person while still being legally married to another, whereas polygamy involves marrying multiple spouses simultaneously, which can be legal in some cultures but illegal in others.

Annulment

A legal procedure that cancels a marriage, declaring it null and void as if it never occurred, often due to reasons such as fraud, coercion, or incapacity.

Divorce

A legal separation of marriage.

Common Law Marriage

A marriage recognized by law based on the couple's actions and cohabitation rather than a formal ceremony or license. It typically requires the couple to live together for a specific period and intend to be married.

Separate Property

Property owned by one spouse before marriage or acquired during marriage as a gift or inheritance, distinct from marital property.

Martial Property

Property acquired during marriage that is considered jointly owned by both spouses, regardless of whose name is on the title.

Equitable Distribution

A legal principle where marital property is divided fairly between spouses at the time of divorce, taking into account various factors such as each spouse's financial contributions and needs.

Prenuptial Agreement

A contract entered into by two individuals prior to marriage that specifies the division of assets and financial responsibilities in the event of divorce.

Cohabitation Agreement

A legal contract between two people who live together but are not married, outlining their rights and responsibilities regarding property, finances, and other aspects of their relationship.