Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

Breaking off a wedding

I am in a situation where I recently broke off an engagement with my fiance`who lives in Maryland and I live in Pennsylvania. I broke it off due to irreconcilable differences. She currently has the ring and I asked for it back. She told me that she would like me to pay for ALL the wedding expenses, such as, reception hall, her dress and the photographer, etc. Once I did that she would send the ring back. My questions are: Am I responsible for 100% of the expenses because I broke off the wedding? What states law has jurisdiction? If I pay 50% of the expenses is she required by law to give me back the ring?


Asked on 10/11/07, 7:56 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Breaking off a wedding

You asked about recovering an engagement ring.

The law is not well settled and probably never will be. I can only speak to PA law but there is no requirement for a woman to return an engagement ring. Once given it is hers to do with as she pleases unless there was an agreement prior.

Generally if the man calls off the wedding he should not seek the return of the ring and the woman (or her family) bear the costs associated with the canceled nuptials. If the bride calls off the wedding then she should return the ring and also bear the costs.

You can sue, but you're just as likely to get stuck for more money than if you just walk away.

Regards,

Roger

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Answered on 10/12/07, 6:18 pm


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