LOUIS, Missouri. Senate candidate Roy Moore has come under fire this week for allegations pertaining to his actions around minors when he was in his thirties. Several women have made allegations that he sexually assaulted them when they were teenagers. Most commentators agree that if these claims are true, Moore should be held to account. Yet, many people are unaware that in many states older men can marry underage girls. In some cases, these young women are in arranged marriages or forced marriages where they have no choice in the matter. Some are pulled out of high school. It can be very difficult for these young women to break free through divorce. Many may not be aware of their rights.
According to NPR, the situation with Moore has put a spotlight on certain evangelical “courting” traditions, some of which accept an older man dating a young woman, as long as the parents give permission. NPR reports that over 200,000 children between 2000 and 2015 may have been married while they were still underage, with almost all of these children being girls. 25 states don’t have minimum age limits for marriage and all states allow underage children to get married with a judge’s approval. This creates a situation where adults may pressure teens or children to marry to avoid state statutory rape charges.
When younger women are forced into marriage, or get married before they are of age, they may face more difficulties in escaping the marriage. If their parents consent to the marriage, they may lack the community supports they would need if the marriage proves abusive. According to one child advocate writing for CNN, they may not be aware of domestic violence resources or abuse resources that are available. They may also not understand their rights through divorce. For example, divorcing couples must equitably split property under the law. However, these young women may be threatened with financial repercussions if they choose to divorce. They may not be aware that they could be entitled to alimony, shared interest in a home, or other financial supports should they choose to get divorced. They may be threatened with losing their children, particularly if they are young and their partner manages the finances. They may not be versed in child custody laws or in resources available to women with children.
For many of these women, their lives have been marked by trauma. While some states have been pushing for children to receive legal counsel with those experienced in forced marriage when seeking marriage before age 18, many states have failed to pass meaningful legislation.
At the end of the day, if you are planning on getting divorced or are trying to leave an abusive marriage, it is important to understand your legal rights, options, and to seek help. Plan ahead. Contact the St. Louis, Missouri divorce lawyer at the Behrens Law Firm, L.L.C. today to learn more about your rights and options. Visit our website at https://ffa.963.myftpupload.com. You are not alone.
