Mathias v. Martin

LAMBERT, Chief Justice.

Resolution of this case requires our consideration of whether and to what extent engaged persons acquire dower rights in the property of the other. Immediately prior to the marriage of Joseph V. Martin and Lillian G. Martin, Joseph conveyed valuable real property to an irrevocable trust controlled by him with the effect of preventing Lillian from acquiring any rights in the real property as a result of the marriage. Despite the conveyance and knowledge of the conveyance by Lillian, the marriage was solemnized and the parties lived together as husband and wife until…