Define: Enoch Arden Law

Enoch Arden Law
Enoch Arden Law
Quick Summary of Enoch Arden Law

Enoch Arden law, also known as the Enoc Arden law, permits individuals to obtain a divorce or enter into a new marriage if their spouse has been absent for a specific duration without any explanation. The law derives its name from a character in a poem who was marooned on an island for numerous years and upon his return, discovered that his wife had remarried. In order to allow her to remain with her new husband, he concealed his true identity. This law is applicable in cases where a spouse is presumed deceased or has deserted their partner.

Full Definition Of Enoch Arden Law

The Enoch Arden law, also known as the Presumptive Death law, allows individuals to obtain a divorce or be exempt from liability if their spouse has been absent without explanation for a specific number of years, typically five or seven. This law is named after a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson, in which the protagonist, Enoch Arden, is stranded on a deserted island for an extended period and returns home to discover that his wife has remarried. To ensure her happiness, he conceals his true identity. For instance, if a person’s spouse vanishes without explanation and remains uncontactable for seven years, the Enoch Arden law can be utilised to secure a divorce or enter into a new marriage without facing charges of bigamy. This law is particularly valuable in situations where an individual desires to move forward with their life but is unable to do so due to their missing spouse.

Enoch Arden Law FAQ'S

The Enoch Arden Law is a legal principle that allows a spouse to obtain a divorce or declare their missing spouse legally dead after a certain period of time has passed without any contact or knowledge of their whereabouts.

The specific time period required for the Enoch Arden Law to apply varies depending on the jurisdiction. In some states, it may be as short as five years, while in others, it could be as long as seven years.

Yes, the Enoch Arden Law allows a spouse to obtain a divorce even if the missing spouse does not provide their consent. However, certain legal procedures and requirements must be followed to ensure due process is upheld.

If a missing spouse is declared legally dead under the Enoch Arden Law, their property and assets are typically distributed according to the laws of intestate succession or any existing will they may have left behind.

Yes, the missing spouse has the right to challenge the declaration of death if they resurface after being declared legally dead. They may need to provide evidence of their existence and explain the reasons for their absence.

The Enoch Arden Law generally applies to both civil and religious marriages. However, specific legal requirements and procedures may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of marriage involved.

Yes, if a missing spouse is declared legally dead under the Enoch Arden Law, the surviving spouse is typically free to remarry without any legal impediments.

While the Enoch Arden Law provides a legal avenue for divorce or declaring a missing spouse dead, it is subject to certain limitations. These limitations may include specific timeframes, residency requirements, and procedural obligations that must be met.

If there is evidence suggesting foul play or intentional disappearance, the Enoch Arden Law may not be applicable. In such cases, it is advisable to consult with legal professionals who specialize in family law and missing persons cases.

No, the Enoch Arden Law primarily deals with the dissolution of the marital bond. Child custody and support obligations are separate legal matters that require specific legal procedures and considerations.

Related Phrases
No related content found.
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 17th April 2024.

Cite Term

To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

  • Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/enoch-arden-law/
  • Modern Language Association (MLA):Enoch Arden Law. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/enoch-arden-law/.
  • Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Enoch Arden Law. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/enoch-arden-law/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
  • American Psychological Association (APA):Enoch Arden Law. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/enoch-arden-law/
Avatar of DLS Solicitors
DLS Solicitors : Divorce Solicitors

Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.

All author posts