Desertion

Introduction to Desertion

Desertion (law), in the law of domestic relations, abandonment or renunciation of marital relations and obligations by either spouse, with intent not to resume relations, and without the consent or wrongful conduct of the other. In most of the U.S., willful desertion is a legal cause for divorce. Following desertion, the period of time necessary before proceedings can be instituted varies from one to five years. In some states, a husband’s continued financial support of the wife whom he has willfully abandoned is no bar to an action for divorce on her part. For desertion of children, see Parent and Child.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Desertion in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Desertion