Legal Definitions - agreement to marry

An "agreement to marry" refers to a mutual understanding or commitment between two individuals to enter into a marital relationship with each other at a future date. It signifies a shared intention and promise to become spouses. While historically, breaking such an agreement could lead to legal action for "breach of promise to marry," most modern legal systems have abolished or significantly limited these types of lawsuits. Nevertheless, the term still describes the fundamental commitment made by prospective spouses.

• Example 1: The Formal Engagement

  After several years of dating, Liam proposes to Chloe with an engagement ring, and Chloe joyfully accepts. They then announce their engagement to their families and friends, and begin making plans for a wedding ceremony next year.

  This scenario clearly illustrates an "agreement to marry." Liam's proposal and Chloe's acceptance, followed by their public announcement and wedding planning, demonstrate a mutual and overt commitment to enter into marriage with each other in the future.

• Example 2: The Implicit Understanding

  Sarah and Michael have been living together for five years. They frequently discuss their future as husband and wife, referring to each other as "my future spouse" in conversations with friends and family. They have opened a joint savings account specifically for their "wedding fund" and are actively looking at venues, even though no formal proposal has yet occurred.

  Even without a formal proposal or engagement ring, Sarah and Michael's consistent discussions, shared financial planning, and actions towards wedding arrangements indicate a clear, mutual "agreement to marry." Their words and deeds demonstrate a shared intention to become spouses.

• Example 3: The Prenuptial Agreement

  Before their upcoming wedding, David and Jessica decide to draft and sign a prenuptial agreement. This legal document outlines how their assets and debts would be handled in the event of a divorce. The agreement explicitly states that it is being made "in contemplation of their forthcoming marriage."

  The act of drafting and signing a prenuptial agreement, which is a legal contract specifically designed for individuals who intend to marry, serves as strong evidence of an "agreement to marry" between David and Jessica. The document formalizes their mutual intention to enter into marriage.