A couple’s dispute over college football tickets has sparked questions about whether these tickets can be classified as assets in divorce proceedings. The situation involves a woman who, despite being a season ticket holder at her alma mater, faces challenges due to her husband’s insistence that their ticket rights are not an asset that should be divided in their divorce.
The couple, initially from the South where the Southeastern Conference (SEC) football culture thrives, moved to Massachusetts after college. They regularly travel back to attend games, demonstrating their commitment to supporting their team. However, the conflict arises because the contributions made to the school’s foundation, which grant them early access to premium seating, are registered under the husband’s name.
The wife argues that their ticket rights, associated with these donations, should be considered an asset in the divorce settlement. Her lawyer has cautioned against pursuing this matter, suggesting that it may not be worth the effort. To strengthen her case, she is advised to gather more information from the football foundation regarding the nature of their ticket rights.
Understanding Ticket Rights and Contributions
The wife is encouraged to look into the specifics of how the foundation manages ticket access. A relevant case from Arkansas, known as the Waldrip case, may provide insight into similar disputes. She should inquire whether the foundation utilizes a point system for determining access to seats, which could potentially strengthen her argument.
If the couple’s contributions have consistently met the necessary criteria for priority seating, it raises the question of whether those rights should be shared in the event of a divorce. Such documentation from the foundation could be pivotal, especially if it outlines policies regarding ticket access and how it may be affected by relationship changes.
The wife is advised to contact the foundation to clarify these policies. Questions to pursue include whether certain levels of annual donations guarantee early access and if the rights can be shared in the case of divorce. Obtaining this information could bolster her position and provide clarity on what rights exist surrounding their season tickets.
Next Steps in the Divorce Process
If the foundation lacks clear written policies, it may be necessary to consider taking the deposition of the individual responsible for managing these benefits. Conducting this deposition virtually and recording it could yield valuable insights.
Once equipped with comprehensive information, the wife should propose a fair arrangement post-divorce. This could involve alternating access to the seats, allowing each party to choose their preferred games annually. Should ongoing donations be required for maintaining ticket access, both parties would need to agree to share the financial responsibility.
This case highlights the complexities that can arise in divorce settlements, particularly when it comes to assets that may not be immediately obvious. As the couple navigates this process, understanding the value and rights associated with their college football tickets could play a crucial role in reaching an equitable resolution.
