Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey

Re: Engagement Ring Laws

This is a very popular question, that I have answered, now, five times. I call it an "oldie, but goodie"! Here is my reply to similar questions in June of 2001 and May of this year:

There must be an awful lot of people out there who are getting engaged and then breaking their engagements. An engagement ring is a gift conditioned upon marriage. Once the marriage occurs, the condition is met and the ring belongs to the woman. If the marriage does not occur, it belongs to the man. Upon divorce, it belongs to the woman since the condition (marriage) was met. There is existing case law on this point. Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit of information that you have given to me. There may be other factors that would change my opinion. Further, no one can rely on advice from an attorney who has not been retained. Since it appears that you have not retained an attorney, before you take any further action, you should contact an attorney (either me or someone else) to discuss your matter in more detail. Only then will you be able to rely on the advice. I will be happy to assist you. However, you need to call me at 856-546-8010. If you mention LawGuru, there will be no charge for your first consultation. Good luck! Rob Gleaner

[By the way: Can someone explain to me why a woman would want to keep a ring from someone who she doesn't want to marry? It seems like it is plain greed to me!]

Re: Engagement Ring Laws

An engagement ring is a gift made in contemplation of marriage. If you are married, the ring is yours to keep. If you were not married, you have to return it.

Daniel Clement

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