Rings are an expensive and customary part of marital relationships in the United States. Many people spend thousands of dollars purchasing engagement rings and wedding rings.
But if that relationship ends, what do you have to do with the ring? Do you get to keep it, or do you have to return it to your ex?
Is it a conditional gift?
The first thing to consider is whether or not the ring qualifies as a conditional gift. Often, this is the case, and the condition is that the couple has to get married. The only reason you accepted the ring in the first place was that you agreed to marry your partner.
As such, if the relationship ended before the two of you got married, then you probably have no choice but to give the ring back. If you already got married and then later decided to get divorced, though, you may be able to argue that the condition has been met and that you should be allowed to keep the ring.
Is it a marital asset?
Another thing to consider is when you purchased it. For instance, if you were given the ring prior to the marriage and you had full ownership of it, it may be a separate asset that you brought to the relationship yourself. However, if the two of you got married and then went out together and jointly purchased a ring to celebrate that marriage, then it may qualify as a marital asset. This would mean that you both have a claim to it, and it needs to go through property division.
Dividing assets during divorce can certainly get complicated, especially when they are very expensive. Take the time to carefully look into all of the legal options at your disposal.
