When someone owes money and the creditor involves the police, the situation can become stressful. The police might compel the debtor to write an agreement or undertaking to pay back the debt. But here’s the thing: such agreements are often not legally binding.

Why?

In many jurisdictions, police don’t have the authority to handle civil matters like debt disputes. Their primary role is to enforce criminal law. When it comes to debt, it’s typically a civil issue between two parties.

What does this mean?

If the police ask you to sign an agreement or undertaking regarding a debt, it’s essential to understand that:

The agreement might not be enforceable in court.
The police can’t use this agreement to force you to pay.
– If you don’t pay, the creditor might need to pursue other legal avenues, like going to court.

So, what’s the point?

In many cases, the agreement might be more of a gesture to appease the creditor or resolve the situation temporarily. It’s crucial to understand your rights and the limitations of police involvement in civil matters.

Takeaway

If you’re facing a debt dispute and the police get involved, know that any agreement you sign might not be binding. It’s always best to seek legal advice to understand your options and the best course of action.

A woman recently shared a concerning situation with me. Her boyfriend, who is processing to travel abroad, asked for her help in obtaining a marriage certificate.

He claimed it was necessary for his travel documents and asked her to sign the certificate, assuring her that it didn’t mean they were getting married. However, after researching the implications, it becomes clear that signing such a document can have serious legal consequences.

The Consequences of Bigamy

If she signs the document and he submits it to the registry, she would be considered a married woman under the law. If he then decides not to follow through with the marriage or abandons her, she would need to file for divorce before she can marry someone else. Failure to do so could lead to severe consequences, including:

Arrest and prosecution for bigamy: If she marries someone else without divorcing her “husband,” she could be charged with bigamy.

Imprisonment: Bigamy is a serious offense that can result in up to 7 years in prison.

Bigamy: Understanding the Law

Bigamy is the act of entering into a marriage with someone while still being legally married to another person. In many jurisdictions, bigamy is a criminal offense that can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.

The Importance of Caution

It’s essential to be cautious when dealing with legal documents, especially those related to marriage. Signing a marriage certificate without intending to get married can lead to unintended consequences, including being trapped in a legal marriage or facing bigamy charges.

Protecting Yourself

If someone asks you to sign a marriage certificate or any other legal document, make sure you understand the implications and potential consequences. It’s always best to:

Seek legal advice : Consult with a lawyer or a legal expert to ensure you understand the document and its implications.

Be cautious of pressure: Don’t feel pressured into signing a document without fully understanding its consequences.

Prioritize your well-being: Your safety and well-being should always be your top priority.

Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure about a situation, take the time to research and seek advice before making a decision.

Yes you have the right to demand for DNA test since there is an established fact that you had something together coupled with the fact that the baby looks like you.

Haba

Get a lawyer to write the family officially informing them about the situation at hand and the need for DNA test to be conducted to reveal the truth.

If they refuse to honour the request

The lawyer can proceed to file a suit in that regard so the c0urt can come into the matter and give instruction that DNA should be conducted.

Once DNA reveals the child belongs to you.

The husband has the right to demand for everything he has spent on the child, those are payments he has evidence for only and you will have to pay them before you get access to the child.

If the child is still below 15

The mother may retain custody while you get access to visit and have the child visit you from time to time.

But the husband will know clearly now that he is not the father of the child.

And in the situation here the DNA result comes out negative that you are not the owner of the child.

You have nothing to fear cos the case was based on established fact not just assumptions and the c0urt is the one who handled the whole thing.

And no case of wrong accusation here or false claim so far you did not confront the family yourself

If they did not tell anyone
No one will hear about it

Ignorance of the law is no excuse