Marvin v. Marvin

Ms. Marvin (plaintiff) and Mr. Marvin (defendant) lived together unmarried for seven years, during which — Ms. Marvin alleged — they orally agreed to hold themselves out as married, pool their efforts and assets equally, and have her give up her career to focus on domestic duties in exchange for his lifelong financial support. She managed the household while he worked and earned substantial assets, all held in his name; he ultimately made her leave in 1970, though he kept supporting her financially until late 1971. She sued for breach of an express contract, but the trial court granted him judgment on the pleadings, and she appealed.