Marriage of Convenience/Sham Marriage

Q: I married a Jamaican woman two months ago and it was a marriage of convenience. I would like to get a divorce. Would she be entitled to any of my estate or alimony? How do I proceed with this?



A: The doctrine of "clean hands" is a rule of law that requires a person coming to court with a lawsuit or petition for a court order to be free from unfair conduct (have "clean hands" or not have done anything wrong) in regard to the subject matter of his/her claim. Going to court claiming that it was a marriage of convenience with your tacit knowledge of the fact (as opposed to force), is a first-class ticket to jail.

Some Trinbagonians get caught in NY, while some get caught in the UK.

Unfortunately for you, she's your wife regardless of the circumstances and if you get a divorce, she will be entitled to her share of your estate and alimony.