Legal Question in Family Law in Washington
If I marry a man, am I responsible for his medical debt incurred BEFORE the marriage?
Asked on 1/31/10, 9:17 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Amir John Showrai
The Pacific Law Firm, PLLC
Typically, no. In Washington, everything you acquire before the date of marriage, including assets and debts, remain separate property or separate debts. There are some exceptions to this rule, such as if you refinance these debts into a joint mortgage or pay off the debts with an unwritten agreement that he's owe you instead, but overall, you should go by this rule.
If you are concerned, I would say consult an attorney ahead of getting married for specific advice on how to avoid liability for your future spouse's separate medical debts.
Answered on 2/05/10, 10:20 pm