Can a Judge Rule in Favor of a Verbal Agreement in a Divorce Case Involving a Family Home in New York?

Question from Kevin, Can a Judge Rule in Favor of a Verbal Agreement in a Divorce Case Involving a Family Home in New York?

Answer from AI:

In general, the enforceability of verbal agreements in divorce cases can be complex and depends on various factors. It’s important to note that this explanation is not legal advice, and the specifics of your situation may require consultation with a legal professional.

Verbal Agreements and Divorce

In New York, as in many jurisdictions, verbal agreements can be legally binding. However, they can be challenging to enforce due to the lack of physical evidence. In divorce cases, courts often prefer written agreements, especially when it comes to significant matters like property division.

Impact of Children on the Case

The presence of young children in a divorce case can influence a judge’s decision, but it doesn’t automatically validate a verbal agreement. The court’s primary concern is the best interest of the child. This principle guides decisions on custody, visitation, and sometimes property division. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean that a judge will enforce a verbal agreement about property.

Factors Considered by the Court

In deciding whether to enforce a verbal agreement, the court may consider:

• The nature of the agreement: Was it about child support, property division, or something else?
• Evidence supporting the agreement: Are there witnesses or other forms of evidence that can corroborate the existence of the agreement?
• The conduct of the parties: Have the parties acted in a way that suggests they both understood and agreed to the terms?

Legal Advice and Next Steps

Given the complexity of these issues, it’s advisable to consult with a legal professional. They can provide personalized advice based on the specifics of your situation. You may also want to consider:

1. Documenting any future agreements in writing to avoid similar disputes.
2. Seeking legal advice before entering into significant verbal agreements.
3. Collecting any evidence that supports the existence of the verbal agreement.

For more information on divorce laws in New York, you can visit the New York Courts’ guide to divorce basics. Remember, this information is general in nature, and the specifics of your case may require professional legal advice.