Understanding Cue Ante Divortium: A Historical Legal Perspective
Definition & Meaning
The term "cue ante divortium" is derived from Latin, meaning "to whom before divorce." It refers to an ancient legal writ that was used to help divorced women reclaim property, specifically lands and tenements, that their husbands had sold without their consent during the marriage. This writ was abolished in 1833, reflecting changes in legal protections for women in marriage and divorce.
Legal Use & context
This term is primarily relevant in the context of family law, particularly concerning property rights during and after marriage. Although the writ itself is no longer in use, its historical significance highlights the evolution of women's rights in legal matters related to divorce. Understanding this term can be beneficial for individuals navigating property disputes in divorce proceedings today. Users can find legal templates on US Legal Forms to assist in managing such issues effectively.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
(Hypothetical example) A woman named Sarah was married to John, and during their marriage, John sold a piece of property that Sarah owned. After their divorce, Sarah sought to reclaim her property using the legal mechanisms available to her at the time. Although the cue ante divortium writ is no longer applicable, similar protections now exist under modern family law.