Whenever it comes to talking about legal terms, most people become intimidated. But understanding legal terms doesn’t need to be a daunting task. In this article, we are going to clarify the often confusing and misunderstood term, palimony.
What Is Palimony?
Palimony is a term that describes the legal obligation of a person to financially support a partner after the dissolution of a cohabiting relationship. The term palimony stems from a 1976 California Supreme Court case, Marvin v. Marvin, where the court ruled that a palimony agreement was binding. This ruling literally changed the legal landscape and opened the door for unmarried couples in other states to seek financial support from their former partners.
Why Palimony Matters
In today’s modern society, more and more couples are opting to cohabit instead of getting married. This means that unmarried couples have little or no legal protection in situations where their relationship ends and one partner seeks financial support from the other. This is where the concept of palimony is particularly needed. In cases where an unmarried couple have agreed to a financial assistance arrangement, palimony provides legal protection and an avenue for them to seek financial relief.
Cases Involving Palimony
One of the most famous cases involving palimony was between actor/comedian Eddie Murphy and his former girlfriend, Paulette McNeely. After the dissolution of their relationship, McNeely sought financial compensation from Murphy. The legal battle went all the way to the California Supreme Court, where it was determined that McNeely was owed palimony from Murphy. Although cases such as McNeely’s are not as common as other types of financial disputes, they do demonstrate that palimony is a viable option for unmarried couples seeking financial support from a former partner.
Conclusion
Palimony is an important legal concept that provides financial protection for unmarried couples who have cohabited in the past. The term palimony was first heard in the 1976 case Marvin v. Marvin, and since that time there have been numerous other cases involving this legal concept. By understanding the basics of what palimony is and why it matters, individuals can have a better grasp on how to protect themselves in the event of the dissolution of a non-marital relationship.