Feature Article: Understanding Covenant Marriage in Arizona
Marriage is a sacred bond between two individuals who promise to love and cherish each other till death do them part. However, not all marriages are created equal, and some require greater commitment and responsibility. In response to the rising divorce rates, some states in America have introduced the concept of covenant marriage, and one such state is Arizona. In this article, we will explore what a covenant marriage is, how it differs from a regular marriage, and the legal implications of a covenant marriage in Arizona.
What is a Covenant Marriage?
A covenant marriage is a type of marital contract that requires couples to undergo premarital counseling and agree to specific conditions before getting married. In a covenant marriage, the couple agrees to limit the grounds for divorce, and in case of divorce, the legal process is more challenging and time-consuming. A covenant marriage is a legally binding agreement that is recognized only in specific states. Arizona was the first state to recognize and institute covenant marriage, followed by Louisiana and Arkansas.
How is it Different from a Regular Marriage?
A covenant marriage is different from a regular marriage in several ways. First, a covenant requires the couple to attend premarital counseling, which is not mandatory in a regular marriage. The counseling includes topics such as conflict resolution, communication, and realistic expectations of married life. Second, in a covenant marriage, the couple agrees to limit the grounds for divorce. In Arizona, the only grounds for divorce in a covenant marriage are abuse, adultery, imprisonment of one spouse, or abandonment. In contrast, a regular marriage allows for no-fault divorce, which means that neither spouse is at fault for the dissolution of the marriage.
Legal Implications of Covenant Marriage in Arizona
In Arizona, a covenant marriage has several legal implications. First, the couple waives their right to a no-fault divorce, which means that divorce can only be granted based on specific grounds. Second, the couple has to undergo counseling before seeking a divorce or separation, which is not mandatory in a regular marriage. Third, the legal process of divorce in a covenant marriage is more challenging and time-consuming, as the couple has to prove fault-based grounds for divorce. Finally, if the couple has children, they must attend counseling before seeking a divorce or separation.
Conclusion
A covenant marriage is an excellent option for couples who believe in the sanctity of marriage and want to take additional steps to avoid divorce. The legal implications of a covenant marriage in Arizona are significant, and couples should carefully consider their decision before entering into one. Ultimately, a covenant marriage is a personal choice, and couples must weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.
Covenant Marriage-ARs
