Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

I live in New Jersey and recently broke off my engagement. I understand nj is no fault and a ring is a conditional gift. However, it was given to me as a Christmas gift on December 23rd and during the years we shared a home together, i paid all our rent and some other mutual bills we shared. I paid these with the same conditional intentions of a future marriage and a life spent together. We separated after i found he was building another relationship with someone else. Can you give mw some honest advice??


Asked on 6/01/14, 4:57 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Robert Gleaner Robert A. Gleaner, P.C.

Your argument is that your ring was not an engagement ring; it was a Christmas present. I suppose you could tell him you will not give it back and if he sues you, argue that to a judge or jury (whichever the case may be). I am not sure how that would turn out.

In my opinion, I do not believe you would be successful in your argument that you paid the bills and rent "in contemplation of marriage". You paid your share of your own living expenses. If you sue him, or if he sues you for the engagement ring, all of these arguments would be made in front of a judge or jury and determined accordingly.

Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit of information that you have given to me. There certainly may be other factors that would change my opinion. Further, no one can rely on advice from an attorney who has not been retained. You will only be able to rely on advice from an attorney who you have actually retained. Good luck! Rob Gleaner

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Answered on 6/02/14, 4:16 am


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