sponsalitia largitas (marriage with wealth)

Literal translation

betrothal with generosity

Legal meaning

Sponsalitia largitas refers to a situation where marriage involves the exchange of substantial financial gifts or dowries, typically between parties who are about to marry but may not have concluded their plans into matrimony. The concept is rooted in South African matrimonial law principles, particularly those related to property and inheritance during betrothal periods.

Examples

• The court ruling on C and Anor. v Minister of Justice, Police and Prison Services in terms of the applicable legal framework concerning sponsalitia largitas.
• The legislative provision in the Promotion of the Status of Women Act (2013) addressing sponsalitia largitas scenarios.

Areas of law