The North Dakota Supreme Court convened on December 12, 2024, to deliberate on the case of Walden v. Walden, focusing on the complexities surrounding spousal support in a short-term marriage. The court heard arguments regarding the nature of the marriage, which lasted 77 months, with significant periods spent apart, raising questions about the financial entitlements of each party.
The attorney representing Mr. Walden emphasized that the marriage should be classified as short-term due to the couple's separate living arrangements for at least half of their time together. He argued that this separation indicated a lack of shared financial responsibilities and lifestyles, which should influence the court's decision on spousal support. Mr. Walden's counsel pointed out that his client had limited knowledge of Mrs. Walden's successful business operations, which included a multimillion-dollar magazine, and was unaware of the financial implications of her business decisions, including a sale to her children.
The attorney further contended that the couple maintained separate bank accounts and led distinct lives, supporting the argument that they should retain their individual debts and assets. He also addressed Mrs. Walden's health issues, specifically her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, arguing that her concerns about her vision and health predated any alleged incidents involving Mr. Walden. This assertion aimed to refute claims that Mr. Walden was responsible for her medical condition and, consequently, her need for spousal support.
In conclusion, the discussions highlighted the complexities of determining spousal support in cases of short-term marriages, particularly when the parties have lived separate lives and have distinct financial situations. The court's decision will likely hinge on these arguments, reflecting the broader implications for similar cases in North Dakota.