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What happens if marriage consent was obtained by fraud but later accepted?

What happens if marriage consent was obtained by fraud but later accepted?

Q: What is the 333 rule in marriage?

The '333 rule' in marriage is an informal guideline suggesting that couples should spend at least three hours a week together, have three date nights a month, and take three trips a year to maintain a healthy relationship. While not a legal concept, it emphasizes the importance of quality time and communication in a marriage.

Full question:

I forced my wife to marry me but she never agreed to live together. She has come back to live with me and we’re a happy couple now. What if a person’s consent to marriage was obtained by fraud but after marriage, the person wants to accept the marriage?

Category: Marriage
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Georgia

Answer:

If your wife has returned to live with you and accepts the marriage, it may be considered valid. Under O.C.G.A. § 19-3-5, a marriage induced by fraud can be ratified if the person later consents and cohabits with their spouse. This means that if someone initially unwilling to marry later agrees and lives together as a couple, the marriage is deemed valid. Additionally, any children born before the marriage is annulled remain legitimate.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What is a fictitious marriage?

A fictitious marriage is one that is not legally recognized due to a lack of valid consent or other legal requirements. This can occur when one party misrepresents themselves or the nature of the marriage. In such cases, the marriage may be considered void or voidable, depending on the circumstances. If a marriage is found to be fictitious, it may be annulled, meaning it is treated as if it never occurred. Legal advice is recommended to navigate these situations.

What is it called when you are married but not living together?

When a married couple is not living together, it is often referred to as 'separation.' This can be a voluntary arrangement or a result of conflict. In legal terms, couples may also seek a legal separation, which formalizes their living apart while remaining married. It's important to note that living apart does not dissolve the marriage unless a divorce is pursued.

What is an example of marriage under false pretenses?

Marriage under false pretenses occurs when one party deceives the other about significant aspects of the marriage, such as their identity, financial status, or intentions. For example, if someone marries another person while hiding a previous marriage or a criminal history, this could be considered marrying under false pretenses. Such marriages may be subject to annulment if the deception is proven.

What is it called when you are married but live separately?

When a married couple lives separately, it is commonly referred to as 'separation.' This can be informal or formalized through legal separation, where the couple remains legally married but lives apart and may outline responsibilities regarding finances and children. Separation does not end the marriage; only divorce can do that.