7 News Belize

Church Senator Speaks on Change in Divorce Law
posted (November 30, 2018)
And finally from the Senate tonight, a less contentious issue that still attracted a healthy share of debate. The Supreme Court of Judicature Act is being amended to make provisions allowing petitions for divorce by consent of parties in non-contentious proceedings. Typically it takes up to three years for petitions to move through the courts, which is the only place in Belize where divorces can be obtained, but the time is now being cut to one year if both parties agree. Within the general agreement, Churches Senator Ashley Rocke, a Baptist pastor, raised his voice to call for more to be done to help families, especially men, build their marriages rather than destroy them. But as Attorney General Michael Peyrefitte acknowledged, sometimes man must take asunder what God has put together.

The amendment would not otherwise affect divorce proceedings over division of matrimonial property and child custody. The A.G. also noted that churches who provide annulments, such as the Roman Catholic Church, should know that they are not recognized by the State; even though many marriages are blessed by the Church, only the State may grant divorce.

Home | Archives | Downloads/Podcasts | Advertise | Contact Us

7 News Belize