Legal Question in Civil Litigation in Missouri
Engagement ring ownership
Question? Who is the owner of an engagement ring prior to the wedding?
If a wedding is called off, dose the female have a legal obligation to return the engagement ring?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Engagement ring ownership
The ring was a gift, legally the person who received it may keep it. Practically speaking ask for its return and you may be able to reason with the recipent. Feel free to contact me to discuss further at [email protected].
Greg S. Kessler
Re: Engagement ring ownership
Usually an engagement ring is a gift and title to the ring vests in the recipient when the ring is given to her.
Sometimes, however, there are promises and cross-promises to marry, and there are somtimes ways to negotiate the return of the ring. In my experience when an engagement is broken there is little sentimental value to the ring, and if the parties are talking there is often room for negotiation.