alienation of affections
In a minority of states, a spouse may sue a third party for purposefuly interfering with the marital relationship. This suit is usually brought against the adulterous spouse's paramour. However, suit may also be brought against an in-law or relative who has advised the defecting spouse to leave the marital relationship.
Definition from Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary
Deliberate diversion of a person's affection away from someone--usually a spouse--who has a right to expect such affection. In most places, alienation of affection is no longer recognized as a legal claim.
Definition provided by Nolo’s Plain-English Law Dictionary.
August 19, 2010, 5:11 pm
