My significant other has asked for a covenant marriage, so what is it? A covenant marriage is a unique marital status that has different requirements to obtain and has a stricter standard to meet in order to get separated.
In order to obtain a covenant marriage a couple must provide a declaration of intent that includes; a written statement as set out by the state, a signed and sworn statement that the couple has received premarital counseling from a member of the clergy or a marriage counselor, and signatures of both parties must be witnessed by a court clerk.
A covenant marriage also has a stricter standard in order to be granted a divorce or legal separation. In order to obtain a separation there must be a showing by the party wishing for the separation that their spouse has:
- Committed adultery
- Committed a felony and were imprisoned
- Abused them, a child, a relative to either party living with them permanently
- Committed domestic violent or emotional abuse
- A habitual drug or alcohol problem
- The court can also grant separations in situations where the spouses have been living apart, depending on the length and conditions or the separation. Lastly, a separation can be granted
- when both parties agree to the separation.
Covenant marriages are typically associated with, but are not limited to, religious marriages. If considering obtaining or trying to dissolve a covenant marriage it is best to consult with an attorney. An attorney can offer advice and guidance in a process that is very strict and has heavy consequences upon your life.