Engagement ring and wedding band

Asked in Victoria, IL - over 4 years

I had offered my future brother-in-law and his girlfriend my old wedding set to use for their new engagement. This was a verbal agreement between both of them ,with me, that they could have these rings (engagement/wedding band) for the price of $2,000.00. At the time they were in the process of moving into a new house, which needed some work done, so I advised both of them that they didn't need to pay me right away for the set. Since then they have broken off the engagement and planned wedding, and now he is living with us. She has been difficult with this transition from the beginning of the break-up. She is now threatening to keep this set of rings without paying me for them. Is there some legal advise you could give me as to how I could go about getting those returned to me..Thanks for your time!

Attorney Answers (2)

Avvo Staff Moderator

Seattle General Practice Lawyer

0

1

Answered over 4 years ago. In most states, there are certain types of agreements that must be in writing to be enforceable. Typically, any agreement that is worth more than $500 must be in writing. So, it will be hard for you to get the $2,000. However, you are entitled to get the wedding set back.

To do this, due to the small amount, representing yourself in small claims may be your best bet. Here is a link to more information on small claims proceedings in your area.

http://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/consumer...

Prior to filing any action, you may want to send the girlfriend a certified letter setting for the facts and your demand for return of the wedding set. If she doesn’t respond, that will help build your case with the judge. If she does respond, then you will at least know where she stands.

Flag

Mark as helpful

Add comment

Kenneth Allyn Sprang

Bethesda Business Attorney

0

Answered over 4 years ago. Although there may be some variation from state to state, the general rule is that an engagement ring is a conditional gift, conditional on the wedding taking place. Your future brother-in-law is therefore entitled to to have the rings returned. The fact that an engagement and wedding ring were given should make no difference.

Historically, the law awarded the ring(s) to the person without fault, the one who did not break off the engagement. However, the modern rule makes the gift conditional.

Your future brother-in-law has the right to recover the rings from the girlfriend. He should then return them to you.

As to the contractual aspects of payment for the rings, the oral agreement may be enforceable, though proving the facts is always a challenge.