Purpose of Contract

From WeDoMarriage.org - World's First Couple Marriage Contract Wiki

Contents 1 1.1 Stating the Main Purpose 2 1.1.1-1.1.7 More Depth and Detail

Contracts usually have a section near the beginning named Purpose that states why the parties have agreed to enter into their particular contract.

There are probably a number of reasons why the couple has decided to design and commit to a Marriage Contract. It's a good idea for the couple to think clearly about what these are, discuss them fully with each other, and then write them down.

By listing in a series of statements, one statement for each topic or theme, what the couple plan to achieve by creating a Marriage Contract, they are bringing clarity to their vision of shared life goals and dreams.

This article provides a general outline of each of these Purpose-related clauses. And to help get couples get started, examples are provided.

Note: This is the first numbered section, Section 1, of the Marriage Contract.

1.1 Stating the Main Purpose

The following is intended as sample of the type of material a couple may wish to include in the Purpose section of their Marriage Contract. In this example there is just a single clause (numbered 1.1), followed by a series of sub-clauses.

1.1	For the reasons set out below, and to achieve the benefits arising therefrom, [Romeo] and [Juliet] resolve to bring into being, as a foundation to their relationship of mutual love and affection, the legally-binding exchange of rights and responsibilities contained in this Agreement:

1.1.1-1.1.7 More Depth and Detail

This single clause is followed by a series of sub-clauses (numbered 1.1.1, 1.1.2 and so on). Each sub-clause covers in more detail a particular theme that motivated the creation of the Marriage Contract.

1.1.1

the CONTEMPLATION of their prospective Agreement focused the minds and spirits of [Romeo] and [Juliet] on the seriousness and sanctity of marriage, each recognising that it is to be considered and entering into only with the sureness of vision, seriousness of intent and certainty of purpose.

1.1.2

the SHARING, through open and honest disclosure, of their individual natures, values and circumstances provided [Romeo] and [Juliet] with the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and understanding of themselves, of each other, and of their relationship, as it has developed in the past, as it stands currently and as they foresee it blossoming into the future.

1.1.3

the NEGOTIATION of mutual rights and responsibilities, as undertaken by [Romeo] and [Juliet] in creating their Agreement, provided the opportunity to discover and value each's empathetic capacity to appreciate the other's background, priorities and aspirations, and to see the world as each other sees it.

1.1.4

the PROVISIONS of their Agreement, created jointly, negotiated fairly and entered into freely, provide [Romeo] and [Juliet] with clarity of life purpose and provide a legally secure repository for their shared goals and dreams.

1.1.5

the PROTECTION provided by the Agreement enables [Romeo] and [Juliet] to guard their relationship, in all its aspects and circumstances, from interference by other persons, entities, including the State and agencies of the State.

1.1.6

the EXECUTION of the Agreement at their intended wedding provides [Romeo] and [Juliet] with the occasion to make a public declaration of their committed union and to invite, from the families or origin, friends and the wider community, recognition and blessing for the life they plan together.

1.1.7

the SUSTAINING of their Agreement into the future presents [Romeo] and [Juliet] with the challenge to nurture further their love for one another, their commitment to one another, and their dedication to a well-lived life – a challenge both [Romeo] and [Juliet] now embrace.

 

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