Alienation of Affection

Alienation of Affection is a legal concept allowing a spouse to sue a third party for damages when that party's actions contribute to the dissolution of the marriage. Essentially, if someone interferes with a couple's relationship—such as by engaging in an affair or causing emotional distress—the wronged spouse may file a lawsuit against that person. The purpose of this legal action is to seek compensation for the emotional and relational harm suffered due to the interference, though such claims are only recognized in a limited number of jurisdictions.