As time goes on, how we define relationships changes. In recent years, individuals have also been redefining their own definitions of what marriage is and can look like. When we think of marriage, the first thing that comes to mind is two individuals coming together that love one another in a romantic and physical sense. However, there are other types of unions that are becoming more common than before. For example, people are now choosing to have platonic marriages, even committing to parenting together.
Duke Law Firm, P.C. can help explain the concept of platonic marriage, what it means for parenting, and how it may impact divorce.
Platonic marriages are legal unions based on practicality or a meaningful connection rather than romance or physical attraction. Typically, these marriages occur between close friends who have love and respect for one another but are not physically involved. However, they decide to get married and spend life as a unit, reaping the benefits of marriage.
One benefit to a platonic marriage is that an individual has the security of a partner. It provides a greater sense of stability in your life, as you have an individual to rely on for support and assistance if it is necessary. Furthermore, there are many legal benefits to being married.
When you are married, you can file for taxes jointly, allowing individuals to potentially qualify for increased tax breaks. Another possibility is that you could draw half of your spouse’s social security benefits in the event something happens to them. In cases where both individuals have a retirement account in place, you can contribute to each other’s accounts.
There are also many legal benefits for individuals who are considering a platonic marriage. For example, if one spouse encounters health issues, the other will have the ability to make important decisions about their care. You will also have the security of paternity if you decide to have children or co-parent together. Once individuals get married, they can also share health insurance benefits, deciding which plans are more beneficial for them.
While it may seem unusual for friends in a platonic relationship to choose to have children together, it is not an uncommon process. Typically, individuals in a platonic marriage have fewer expectations for their spouse, as there are lower stakes. Having children together can place a lot of stress on a couple in a romantic relationship, which can result in a divorce.
Without high expectations in place, platonic co-parents can navigate disagreements in a more effective manner. Furthermore, platonic parenting offers the child support from two parents rather than being raised by a single parent.
Individuals in platonic marriages can still file for a divorce. If one person does develop romantic feelings for another or wants a different relationship, a divorce may be necessary. However, these partnerships are created on the premise of connection as friends, not romance. Due to this, platonic marriages can often end in a very amicable fashion. The couple will be able to communicate about the intricacies of their case without the pain of lost true love.
Of course, if children are in the picture, this process may be more complex, but you can still continue co-parenting as a team.
If you are in a platonic marriage and need legal assistance, it is critical that you have a team of understanding and compassionate attorneys on your side. At Duke Law Firm, P.C. we understand that relationships and marriages can take place in many different forms. However, good legal representation is necessary for any legal issue.
To schedule a consultation, call us at (585) 449-4987 or visit us online.