The precise plan may not spread to Pittsburgh anytime soon, but in an attempt to spare people the hassle and heartache of divorce, some Mexico City authorities have proposed a novel plan – two year marriage contracts. According to the assemblyman who introduced the bill, the idea is a reflection of reality. Of the 33,000 marriages that took place in that city during the past two years, nearly half have already ended in divorce.
Divorces in Mexico cost around $3,500, so many of those failed marriages did not go to court. The couples instead agreed to informal separations with some even entering into a second marriage. Under the new law, temporary marriage contracts would decide in advance how property would be divided and what arrangements would be made for any children from the relationship.
The Catholic Church has issued strong protests against the proposed ordinance, saying that it would further erode family values. According to the local archdiocese, Mexico has many severe problems directly linked weakening families. This bill, along with another passed two years ago to allow gay marriage in the capitol city, would only add to the country’s problems.
Pittsburgh divorce lawyers noted from news reports that the proposal has a real chance of passing. The measure could come up for a vote before the end of the year. American lawmakers are monitoring the situation carefully. If the ordinance proves to be popular, similar bills could be introduced in U.S. cities. It remains to be seen, however, if there is a government that would pass such a law in the U.S., and if there are couples who would take part in this type of marriage.
Source: Reuters “‘Til 2013 do us part? Mexico City mulls 2-year marriage” Oct. 2, 2011
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