rings

If you are unaware of what protections are afforded to you, you could quickly sign away something valuable.

Before walking down the aisle, before all the planning, budgeting, rehearsals, sampling platters, picking colors, and the vast ocean of efforts that are now commonplace for marriage, there was the engagement ring—that first promise of forever. Unfortunately, forever sometimes is much shorter than we would hope.

Many fundamental issues take precedence during a divorce, but for some that engagement ring represents more than property, it becomes a symbol. This symbol can be positive or negative, but for either reason, there are times when one party wishes to be given back a gifted ring.

Determining Who Gets the Rings

This begs the question, “Who gets the ring?” Each state has a different opinion. Some take a conditional stance, concentrating on fault. Other states take on a no-fault position, much like their divorce proceedings at large, and base their judgment on case law.

In Missouri, an engagement ring is considered a pre-marital gift. As such, it does not fall under marital property and is recognized as the property of the receiving party. This is both a relief and a point of contention, depending on which side of the fence you sit. Either way, the courts in Missouri have divested themselves of this issue, and those worried their engagement ring may be up for grabs can breathe a sigh of relief.

Contact a St. Louis Divorce Attorney

This issue is rather straightforward, but you may have many more variables at play. Contact a trusted St. Louis family law attorney to know your rights. If you are unaware of what protections are afforded to you, you could quickly sign away something valuable. Be sure to consult with a Missouri attorney and protect what is essential in your life.